By Benjamin Roehlke, Staff writer
Relay for life, a tradition for many, broke a school record for the amount raised during the 24-hour event on April 13 and April 14.
Organizations raised money leading up to the event and Susquehanna, along with its organizations, raised a total of $43,738.31 for cancer research and treatments. Not only do organizations raise money outside of relay, but also during the event. Groups that participate often set up various tables and activities for others to enjoy raising money; some tables sell baked goods, others offer games. This year there was also mechanical bull at the event.
Relay isn’t all about raising money, it is also a time to come together and remember those we have lost. Each year, a number of speakers talk about their experiences with cancer. They often speak of loved ones, or a personal battle. This year the topic was about friendship, and the value of support. Senior Sam miller spoke about his personal experiences with cancer. He emphasized that when someone is going through a tough time in their life, they need others to stick by their side no matter how tough things get. The support others give and the positive mindset it can put you in can make all the difference in the world. So make sure you can be there for friends and family, because they need you whether you realize it or not.
Sophomore Natalie Tamblyn, a Sigma Kappa member, said: “Relay is a really great experience because you get to spend time with your friends and loved ones while supporting such an amazing cause, especially for those who have been impacted by cancer is some way. It’s a great way to unite our campus community and support those that work for our school that have personally gone through that battle and show them how much we love them and are grateful for them”.
Following the speakers, attendees walked around the track with glow sticks, signifying their remembrance of someone who they have lost to cancer. During this time, glow sticks are put into
lanterns to light the path in memory of these loved ones. And though they have passed on, they will never be forgotten.
Susquehanna Greek life made an enormous contribution to this year’s relay for life. Service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega raised $1,712. Kappa delta was the top team for Susquehanna’s sororities raising $4,627, followed by the second most raised Zeta Tau Alpha with $3,080, and third Alpha Delta Pi with $2,495. As for the fraternities Tau Kappa Epsilon raised $20,321, Phi Mu Delta with $1,098, and Theta Chi with $535.
Sarah Derrick, a senior and a coordinator of the event, said: “Relay For Life was a huge success this year. We’ve raised $43,738.31 for the American Cancer Society. With over 500 participants, we were able to surpass our goal and break our previous records. It has been a pleasure to be a part of such a special organization throughout my time at Susquehanna. The event wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated Colleges Against Cancer team and organizations throughout campus who came together to fight back against cancer.”
