The word itself is a blight on the English language. Cancer. It’s unwelcome meaning frightens the public when it is mentioned as news reports of it’s devastating effects are a daily occurrence in today’s 24-7 information deluge.

With such a long running and formidable foe however, is an army of those who would withstand it.
This was the face of the crowd during the 2008 Relay for Life.

Those unfamiliar with the event should know that while there are moments of somber reflection of those lost during the 24-hour trek, the real overwhelming feeling is the determination of the human spirit.

The original idea for the Relay for Life came from Dr. Gordy Klatt, a surgeon from Tacoma, Washington. A marathon enthusiast, he decided to help the income of his local American Cancer Society office by circling a track for a 24-hour period. The day-long walk symbolized the fact that cancer never sleeps. In his inaugural walk, Klatt covered 83 miles as friends paid various amounts to walk or run with him, raising $27,000 for his first attempt.

Since that time, the Relay For Life has become a team event where sponsors organize for several weeks or even months to put together a 24-hour celebration of life. From that first event in 1985, the program now involves millions of people in thousands of locations across the globe.

The Star Valley event descended on Star Valley Middle School where not a parking spot could be found for hundreds of yards surrounding the track. Dozens of fifth-wheel trailers and even more tents were set up for the full overnight experience.

“As a committee, we were very pleased with the turnout and the generosity of the people in this valley,” stated Lona Izatt. “We hope we made it an event that people will want to return to next year.”
Izatt also said that the amount of money raised surpassed their goal.

“We know that it takes a village,” she added. “For us to all band together and do what we can to fight cancer and every little bit helps.”

For more information on the national affect of the Relay for Life or for other ways to help battle cancer, visit www.cancer.org.

Be sure to click below for an exclusive photo slide show of the Star Valley Relay for Life. (Photos by Dan Dockstader)

 

 2008 Star Valley Relay for Life: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download