The Beginning

Relay For Life’s journey began in May 1985 when a US colorectal surgeon, Dr. Gordy Klatt, wanted to boost the income of his local American Cancer Society office to support all of his cancer patients. He spent a grueling 24 hours circling a track in Tacoma, Washington and raised over $27,000 to fight cancer. One person really can make a difference.

International Community

Since then, Relay For Life has become the largest fundraising event for cancer in the world. Celebrated in over 600 communities across 21 counties this inspirational overnight event empowers and unites local communities in the battle against cancer.

This ongoing event celebrates the lives of those who have survived, remembers loved ones lost, and seeks to fight back against this devastating disease. In developing countries, where 70 percent of cancers are detected in late stages and the stigma against cancer remains strong, Relay has proven especially effective in educating the public about prevention and survivorship of this disease. Through International Relay, survivors are given the spotlight to show that there is life after diagnosis. These international Heroes of Hope inspire other community members who have been touched by cancer. Please click here for more information about International Relay For Life.

Hope Around the World

Think Globally Act Locally

Relay For Life began in Australia in 1999 when the Victorian community of Murrumbeena raised over $75,000 for the Cancer Council. Since then, Relay For Life is now run in every state and territory and raises over $18 million each year. In NSW alone, over 49 thousand people take part in this unique community event each year. Every dollar raised goes towards helping the Cancer Council fund vital research, prevention and support programs many of which are helping people within your community everyday.

To find out more about Relay For Life around Australia go to www.relayforlife.org.au