The Relay for Life is a grassroots, and yet international event that brings the enormity of the fight against cancer down to the people of a community.

“Sometimes the fight against cancer seems overwhelming. By taking up that fight in our community, as many others are doing in their communities, we can make a difference,” said Dee LaPlant, Chairman of the Relay for Life of Franklin County.

It all started 28 years ago in Tacoma, Washington with one man on a mission. Dr. Gordy Klatt walked and ran for 24 hours around a track, ultimately raising $27,000 to help the American Cancer Society fight the nation’s biggest health concern – cancer. Next year, 340 supporters joined the overnight event. Since those first steps, the Relay For Life movement has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, raising more than $4 billion to fight cancer.

For Franklin County, Maine, it all started 15 years ago when local residents who had been participating in the Androscoggin County event decided it was time Franklin County had its own event. The event was held at Franklin County Fairgrounds and, though much smaller than today’s event, featured an enthusiastic group of volunteers, many of whom are still active.

“Over the years, we’ve been at Mt. Blue High School and Jay High School and each site has its pluses. But it’s great to be back at the Fairgrounds,” said Anna Lyon, a member of the organizing committee who has been involved through the Franklin Savings Bank team for all 15 years the event has been in Franklin County. “I’m always impressed at how generous our hosts have been in donating their tracks for us to use for the Relay.”

Locally, the Relay is made possible by the dedication of many volunteers and the sponsorship of many businesse, including Hannaford, Sea-Vu Campground, Dunkin’ Donuts, Franklin Savings Bank and Barclays. In addition, many support the event with in-kind donations, including Poland Springs, Jarden Plastic Solutions, PartyLite, Franklin County Agricultural Society, Jay Rental, Kevin Vining and Son, Archie’s Inc. and Wilson Stream Family Practice

The American Cancer Society defines the Relay as organized, overnight community fundraising walk that features teams of people who camp out around a track. Members of each team take turns walking around the track. While that is happening, food, games and activities provide entertainment and build camaraderie. “It’s a family-friendly environment for the entire community,” said Lyon.

Relays feature a Survivors Lap, during which all cancer survivors at the event take the first lap around the track, celebrating their victory over cancer while being cheered on by the other participants who line the track. Relay For Life events also recognize and celebrate caregivers, who give time, love, and support to their friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers facing cancer

After sunset, the Luminaria Ceremony takes place so we can remember people we have lost to cancer, honor people who have fought cancer in the past, and support those whose fight continues. Candles are lit inside of personalized bags and are placed around the Relay track as glowing tributes to those who’ve been affected by cancer.

Traditionally, events have a theme and teams try to interject the theme into their dress, campsite decoration and events. This year, the theme is Wild, Wild West so expect to see plenty of cow pokes at the Fairgrounds.

Funds raised at the Relay are used with the goal of making progress toward a future without cancer and more birthdays.

The Relay benefits:

• Research – For more than 65 years, the American Cancer Society has been finding answers that save lives – from changes in lifestyle to new approaches in therapies to improving cancer patients’ quality-of-life. No single nongovernmental, not-for-profit organization in the US has invested more to find the causes and cures of cancer.

• Hope Lodge – Where to stay and how to afford accommodations are immediate concerns for cancer patients who must travel far from home for the best treatment. American Cancer Society Hope Lodge® facilities provide a free and comfortable place for patients and their caregivers to stay, so they can focus on getting well.

• Road to Recovery – Cancer patients frequently cite transportation to and from treatment as one of their most critical needs. The American Cancer Society Road To Recovery® program matches cancer patients with specially trained volunteer drivers.

• Look Good…Feel Better – This free service teaches women battling cancer beauty techniques to help them improve their appearance and self-image during chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Volunteer beauty professionals demonstrate makeup techniques, nail care, skin care, and options related to hair loss.

• Reach to Recovery – Our Reach To Recovery support program matches specially trained breast cancer survivors with people who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and who want to talk to someone who has been there. These dedicated volunteers offer understanding, support, and hope.