Fighting cancer through the Relay for Life

SPRINGFIELD — Cancer does not discriminate. It randomly strikes people of all ages, races, genders, religions, and nationalities. And it can create a feeling of helplessness among those who witness its potentially debilitating effects.

But there is a way to fight back against this disease and to counter this feeling of helplessness with a sense of empowerment and purpose. How? Through the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life, a fun-filled community event that brings people together in support of the fight against cancer.

The Relay For Life of the Wissahickon Valley will take place on Saturday, May 20, from 4 to 10 p.m. at Springfield Township High School in Erdenheim. The event is open to people of all ages, from all over the region — from Springfield and Chestnut Hill to Ambler and Blue Bell to Upper Dublin, Plymouth, Whitemarsh, and beyond.

Relay For Life is like a community block party, where kids can spend their time playing old-fashioned lawn and carnival games, competing in hilarious contests, and adorning themselves with face paint and henna tattoos. Exercise enthusiasts may choose to walk or run laps around the high school track. And everyone can enjoy music and dance performances. There is also plenty of time to browse the raffle and silent auction tent and bid on restaurant gift cards, Phillies tickets, museum and theme park passes, and more.

What's unique about Relay For Life is that it seamlessly combines all this light-hearted fun with the opportunity to honor cancer survivors and remember loved ones lost. Cancer survivors are invited to attend the event and will be honored in a celebratory walk around the track and treated to gift bags and dessert. Survivors who register on the event website are entitled to receive a free t-shirt. The Survivor Ceremony begins at 7 p.m.

The most moving part of Relay For Life takes place after dark. Beginning at 9 p.m., the stadium lights are lowered, and white bags surrounding the track are illuminated. Each bag bears the name of a loved one who has been affected by cancer. The names are read aloud while the crowd walks silently around the track. These luminaria bags — in memory, honor, or support — can be ordered online through the event website until May 15. They can also be ordered at the event itself.

The community is welcome to attend Relay For Life any time between 4 and 10 p.m. on May 20. There is a $5 entry donation, with all proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society. It is a rain-or-shine event, with the school's indoor facilities being used in the case of inclement weather. To learn more, to register as a survivor, or to order luminaria, visit the event website at www.relayforlife.org/pawv. For questions or to volunteer, contact Jodi Benjamin at [email protected].

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