What Is Relay?

The Spirit of Relay

At its core, Relay For Life is a fundraising overnight walk-a-thon to benefit the American Cancer Society. But, as those who have participated in Relays in the past will tell you, it is much more than that.

It is a fun event that brings a community together.

It inspires hope in those who participate.

It allows us to remember and honor those we have lost to cancer.

It also allows us to celebrate those who have survived their battles with cancer while raising money to help put an end to this disease.

The Purpose of Relay

Relay For Life is an opportunity for individuals and communities to actively support the mission of the American Cancer Society. 

The Day of Relay

As Relay begins, participants pitch tents and get their campsites set up for the night ahead. Meanwhile, cancer survivors are treated to a Survivor Reception complete with food and entertainment donated by members of the community.

Relay officially begins with the Opening Ceremony, highlighted by a speech by a local cancer survivor. Then, Relay gets underway with the Survivor / Caregiver Lap - cancer survivors walk the track while the rest of the participants cheer them on. This is followed by a "parade of teams" lap and Relay is officially under way!

For the next 12 hours, team members take turns walking laps, making sure that at least one member from each team is on the track at all times. New friends are made and old friends are visited while music and other entertainment keeps the walkers going. 

At nightfall, the crowd gathers once again for the Luminaria Ceremony. Candles are placed in bags around the track, each one bearing the name of someone who has been affected by cancer - in honor of those who have survived, and in memory of those we have lost.

In the end, Relay For Life is not something you can read or even hear about - it's something that you experience. 

Ayer Photography Support For Relay For Life

Ayer Photography of Vermont has supported the Chittenden County Relay For Life since 2005.