Relay For Life Surges Through Middle Tennessee State University

By Danial Grant Elam

Motlow Buzz Reporter

            MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Relay For Life, an event that raises money for the American Cancer Society, was held at the Middle Tennessee State University campus early April 17.

            Relay For Life helps people and families cope with the disease that is cancer. The global event has spread all over in efforts to reach millions upon millions of people and families who have been affected by cancer. The Murfreesboro event featured 23 teams with 263 participants who raised $15,000.

Locally made Relay For Life sign.

            Relay For life is an event that brings communities together in hopes of raising money that goes towards the American Cancer Society. Each year, more than 3 million volunteers and supporters across the country help the American Cancer Society work to achieve this life-saving mission. Each year volunteer’s come together and make a team to see just how much money can be raised. "This event is something that is very personal to me," said Courtney McCracken, a senior at MTSU and an assistant to the coordinator of the event. “I had a great-grandfather and grandfather who both died from cancer." 

             Relay for Life occurred from 6 p.m. to midnight Friday at the Recreation Center on campus.  The event was open to the general public.

             When asked why she kept with this event after she left home, Courtney said, “Because this is something that is very close to my heart and is something I want to continue to help grow”.

One of many great facts in the gym.

            The event is more than putting teams together to help raise money. It is an opportunity to help people cope with cancer. Even though one might not be directly affected by cancer, that doesn't mean cancer hasn't had an impact on someone. Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases in the world.

            “This event is huge because it helps people who have been affected by cancer directly and indirectly, and with the help of all these great volunteers, I think this event will continue to grow throughout the area," said McCracken, when she was asked why she thinks the event is so important and if it will continue to be a success at MTSU.

            To learn more about the Relay for Life, visit www.RelayForLife.com.  To learn more about the American Cancer Society's efforts to change lives, visit www.Cancer.org.