Relay for Life was conceived, 26 yrs ago, in Tacoma, Washington by Dr Gordy Klatt. In 1985, Dr Klatt in an effort to to raise funds for the American Cancer Society, relay more than 83 miles circling the track.

Today, Relay For Life, is a life-changing event that helps communities across the globe to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease.

Relay starts with a Survivors Lap – an inspirational time when survivors are invited to circle the track together and help everyone celebrate the victories they’ve achieved over cancer.

After dark, relayers honor people who have been touched by cancer and remember loved ones lost.

During the Luminaria Ceremony, candles are lit inside bags with messages written on the outside.

The Fight Back Ceremony is where each person make a personal commitment to save lives by pledging to do something simple eg head shaving for charity.

Cancer, is a disorder of cell growth. There are about, 200 different types of cancer.

1 in 7 of the population in Malaysia, are at risk of getting cancer sometime in their life.

Some 80% of cancers are due to unhealthy lifestyles. The key factors are smoking, diet with too much fat or too little fibre, lack of exercise and obesity.

Chances of survival are better, if cancer is detected and treated early.

Thousands of people and their families, suffer in silence from cancer and its consequences.

You are not alone. There are many people who have survived cancer, who have benefited from proper care and comfort and of course, lots of love. There is HOPE.

This project is organised by the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (Penang Branch) and supported by Penang Hospice Society and Majlis Perbandaran Pulau Pinanag (MPPP).

Related articles:

Photoblog: Penang CM walk with cancer survivors

Fighting the Big C with Optimism