The Relay for Life idea was the brain child of a surgeon from Tacoma, Wash., in the mid-1980s. Dr. Gordy Klatt, a marathon runner, circled a track for 24 hours while nearly 300 of his friends, family and patients watched. Since 1985, the Relay idea has spread to communities throughout the nation. Dr. Klatt was ironically diagnosed with cancer himself earlier this month.

Today, millions of people throughout the United States participate in this fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. The funds raised go for cancer research, cancer education, local programs and services and fund the 1-800-ACS-2345 toll free cancer hotline which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and www.cancer.org where anyone can get the latest cancer information at their fingertips.

Donations may be made at any time, even during the Relay For Life event or by visiting the event website at www.relayforlife.org/polknc.  For more information on the Relay For Life event, please contact event chairperson David Moore at david@wantmoore.com.

– article submitted by Debbie Buchanan