Relay for Life

The Carnegie Mellon University community annually holds their American Cancer Society Relay for Life.  The American Cancer Society’s mission, as a nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization, is to eliminate cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and service.  Coming together as one of 5000 communities across the country, Carnegie Mellon joins millions of others celebrating cancer survivors, victims, and fighting back cancer’s current impression in the world.

As an active group on campus, Carnegie Mellon’s Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) unit participates as a relay team.  Prior to the event, midshipmen raise money for the American Cancer Society then form as a team for 24 hours of fun.  Relays usually take place overnight, symbolizing cancer’s abiding presence.  Each team must have at least one member on the track at all times during the relay.  Students share stories of cancer’s impact in their lives, while listening to music, playing games, and enjoying Carnegie Mellon’s traditions for the event.  Relay for Life is just one university event midshipmen enjoy participating in, as they join the fight to give cancer victims their next birthday one year at a time.