On Wednesday night at Midtown Beer Company in Lansing, locals came out to learn more about what Relay for Life’s goals are, enjoy refreshments and earn prizes.
This year, Lansing’s Relay for Life will be held June 27 and 28.
Each year, MSU students are avid participators in the fundraiser, often raising thousands of dollars through Greek Week-centered events.
With this being the 100-year anniversary of the American Cancer Society, event chair for Relay of Life Lansing Abby Kelly started off the night by saying her goal is to “make this cancer’s last century.”
Kelly said she became involved with the relay in 2009 through a volunteer group.
“Since then, it’s always been my goal to make Relay for Life of Lansing be as amazing as it possibly can,” she said.
American Cancer Society spokeswoman Kristen Adams said the Relay for Life is a fun event where people can give something back to friends and loved ones.
“It’s a safe place to come and remember people who lost their battle to cancer or come and celebrate people still with us today,” Adams said.
Adams said she personally got involved with the cause because of her own experiences with cancer. She said her grandfather died from cancer when she was 3. Then, when she was 19, she found out her high school sweetheart was diagnosed with testicular cancer.
“Students tend to think cancer is for old people or it doesn’t happen to people like me,” she said.
By getting involved with fundraising for Relay for Life, Adams said students can obtain skills needed to obtain jobs after graduation.
“When students have the opportunity to fundraise for the American Cancer Society it helps to show passion outside school or work,” Adams said.
MSU alumnus Eric Schmidt said he first got involved with the relay through a job and has continued since moving to another position.
“It’s a good organization because it’s local, but at the same time it’s a nationwide thing,” Schmidt said.
The relay will take place at Cooley Law School Stadium.
The goal is to raise $40,000 to help cancer patients in the Greater Lansing area.
