In high school, one of my proudest accomplishments came from being a member of the Relay for Life committee, which consumed a great amount of my time actively planning and executing one of the most successful charity events in the country. Relay for Life is an overnight walk and community event that celebrates the lives of those who have survived cancer, remembers those who lost their battle, and pledges to fight back against this terrible disease. I joined the committee in my high school four years ago for Howell’s first-ever relay, and was overwhelmed with pride when I realized how much the event grew over the four years that I helped run the event. During my senior year, we put on our most successful Relay to date and raised over $60,000 for the American Cancer Society.
When I found out the American Cancer Society was now bringing Relay for Life to the Stockton community, I knew I wanted to be involved. I organized a team with the newly formed Health Science Club, and we attended the event unsure of what to expect. Typically, Relay for Life events take place outdoors on a track, where participants walk laps throughout the night to signify that cancer never sleeps. Our Relay took place inside of Big Blue gym due to inclement weather, but the event was successful despite the location change. The event raised over $20,000 for cancer research and ACS patient and family services- not bad for our first year!
Next year, I would really like to join the planning committee here at Stockton so that I can contribute to the growth of our event in the same way that I was able to in high school. I know that Stockton is capable of expanding our participation in the event, and I have made it my personal goal for our school to raise $60,000 by the time I graduate as well. If a group of high school students can do it, Stockton certainly can as well! In the upcoming years, it would be wonderful to see every club and Greek organization participating in Relay for Life.
Cancer knows no bounds. Everyone has either been touched by the horrible disease in their own personal lives, or knows someone else who has had to deal with the struggle associated with cancer. I lost my grandfather to cancer, and one of my friends from home is currently fighting for his life as well. I want to know that I am doing everything possible to rid the world of this awful disease, and work towards creating a world with more birthdays.