Every year, communities worldwide gather to remember loved ones, honor survivors, and raise money to support research and advocacy efforts in the fight against cancer. On September 19, at 3:00 pm, Relay for Life Carver County is taking place at Waconia Lions Field, inviting people to come together in support, celebration, and hope for a future without cancer.
In 1985, Dr. Gordon “Gordy” Klatt, a colorectal surgeon in Tacoma, Washington, turned his love of running into a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. As he ran — and raised $27,000 that year — he dreamed of a world without cancer and how this idea of running to raise money could grow. Since then, the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life has spread from one event to 5,200 in the United States and in over 20 countries worldwide, raising billions of dollars to fund patient assistance, research, and education. While the event has expanded, its mission remains the same: to unite communities, to celebrate survivors, to remember those lost, and to support the fight against this disease.
Co-leader of Relay for Life Carver County, Buffy Knopik, says this year they’ll be working closely with the Waconia Baseball Association, which will be selling food and drink for all who come to support those on a cancer journey or remember someone lost to the disease. Luminaries can also be decorated with names and tributes, which will then be lit and placed along a walking path.
“Caregivers and loved ones of those who have passed are remembered at the Luminaria Ceremony, a silent reflective walk held at dusk and led by our bagpiper.” The evening is full of meaningful moments, but connection and fun are also part of the experience. There will be games like Giant Jenga, lap Scrabble, bags, ladder golf, and a Pick-A-Prize fundraiser featuring a variety of prizes.
Would you like to get involved? “The entire community is welcome to come out and show support and celebrate victories,” shares Buffy. There is no fee to attend, only the desire to come together in support and celebration. People can put a team together to raise funds and attend and/or walk at the event, and they’re always looking for volunteers to set up, clean up, and to add a few faces to the Event Leadership Team. Sponsorship opportunities and prize donations are also available year-round for anyone looking to show ongoing support for Relay For Life.
To learn more about Relay for Life and how you can participate, visit www.relayforlife.org/carvercountymn