This year, hundreds of thousands of people will hear the words “You have cancer,” and there’s a good chance that some of them will be people we know and love. Most of us have been touched by cancer in some way… and we all have the power to make a difference. That’s why I have chosen to fight back right here in my own community by participating in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life®.

My girlfriend Maria is an employee at the Wilton, CT branch of the American Cancer Society, and has been actively involved in Relay for Life (and other cancer awareness programs) for over 5 years. Last summer her and I volunteered at several local relays, and were participants in another by forming a team of family and friends. It’s a night full of fun, hope, and remembrance. It’s a great event and one that should be experienced by any one who has been touched by this horrible disease.

Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature activity. It offers everyone in a community an opportunity to participate in the fight against cancer. Teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Relays are an overnight event, up to 24 hours in length.

The American Cancer Society sponsors Relay events across the country and chances are there is an event in your own town or nearby community. I encourage everyone to Find Your Nearest Event and get involved. While donations are always appreciated, these are free events, so even if you just choose to go and walk a few laps to show your support, Relay for Life is a wonderful event.

If you would like more information or help with forming your own team, please contact Maria DeCarlo at maria.decarlo@cancer.org or visit her Team Page for the Monroe, CT relay. Maria will be happy to help you find your closest relay and get you started as a team captain.

From Maria:

I Relay because cancer has touched too many people in my life… so I decided to do something about it. I formed a team (for the Monroe, CT Relay) last year, just to get family and friends to come and see what it was all about. To my surprise, we raised close to $2,000.00, and had the best time doing it. So, we’re back for a second season. If you’d like to check out my team page, make a donation or get involved, click here or email maria.decarlo@cancer.org

Thanks for reading, and I encourage everyone to get involved in your local Relay For Life event!