North Texas Relays For Life unite for virtual event

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NORTH TEXAS – Relay For Life, the American Cancer Society’s global movement, will combine previously scheduled events across North Texas to one online event, allowing 24 communities to participate on May 2, even amid the Coronavirus pandemic.

From 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on May 2, the American Cancer Society will offer elements of its traditional Relay For Life, but instead of on an outside track, as usual, this Relay will be online only. This virtual approach to the annual spring tribute to cancer survivors will carry the theme “Keep Calm and Relay On: Relay Online!” www.RelayForLife.org/NorthTexasArea 

“This is undoubtedly a challenging time, but the fact is, cancer does not stop and neither do we,” said Jeff Fehlis, executive vice president for the American Cancer Society’s South Region. “This year, approximately 129,770 Texans will be diagnosed with cancer and 41,810 will succumb to the disease. Amidst the Coronavirus pandemic, the American Cancer Society has suspended hundreds of fundraising events and has begun to get creative as we can. Our new ‘Relay On’ virtual fundraising event is another example of our relentless pursuit and commitment to raise awareness and funds for the fight against cancer.”  

Relay For Life, the American Cancer Society’s signature event, celebrates cancer survivors. Traditionally the family-friendly events were held on outdoor tracks with teams walking to support cancer research and programs. This year the need still exists. The American Cancer Society’s free helpline received some 25,000 calls last month, with 80 percent of them related to cancer patients’ needs related to Covid-19.

 The 2020 virtual event will retain many Relay For Life traditions. Survivors, entertainment, personal stories and video clips will be a part of this virtual, unprecedented event.

“The American Cancer Society does amazing work, and I’m proud of our current response during this difficult time,” said Keenan Delaney, executive director for the American Cancer Society’s North Texas Area.  “Whether you need emotional support or information, the American Cancer Society is there for cancer patients and their caregivers. But we need help.  Fundraising isn’t all we do, but all we do depends on it.”


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