Cancer can affect everyone in some way. Most people in the world know or once knew someone who has suffered from cancer. Relay for Life is an organization that raises money and awareness for those affected by the awful, life-threatening demon.

Sophomore Jennie Politano, co-chair to this year’s Relay for Life at Mercyhurst University, put forth a lot of hard work to make this year a success. Even with more than 200 participants, Politano does not want to stop there. She hopes as the event takes place more people will decide to participate.

Her ideal goal for Relay at Mercyhurst one day would be “for the whole school to come, including faculty and administration, but that is a work in progress,” Politano said.

Being Mercyhurst University’s third annual Relay for Life, those in charge decided to change the previously 12-hour walk to a 24-hour walk, simply because Relay for Life originated as a 24-hour walk.

With just a $10 donation to register, students can participate in a list of free activities. Entertainment will be provided with a performance by The Romantic Era. Participants can also receive free food such as pizza, subs, popcorn, s’mores, hot dogs and hamburgers, along with a bouncy bounce, bon fire, glow sticks, tie-dye and more.
For Politano, the overall importance for Relay for Life is “about coming together as a school and raising money for research and one day being able to prevent cancer,” she said.

“One in three men and women will develop cancer at least once within his or her lifetime,” Politano said.
This makes Relay for Life a very important event that takes place all over the United States.

Not only does this year’s event raise money to help find a cure, but proceeds will also be donated to Hope Lodge, which is a place where cancer patients can stay and receive treatment for free.

A Mercyhurst student currently battling leukemia is staying at the facility.

Encouraging students and faculty to come and participate, Politano said, “It’s one night of walking to come together with friends and family to raise money for there to be more birthdays and to remember those we have lost. Even if you come for an hour, it is making a difference in someone’s life.”

Politano is very passionate about this event along with many others on campus. Cancer hurts, but we as a community can help.

Relay for Life will begin on Friday, April 27, at 12 p.m. and will last until Saturday, April 28, at 12 p.m. Take the time to come by and be a part of something that matters.