Local Relay For Life event to celebrate 25 years May 18 at Heritage Park

The United States is expected to surpass 2 million new cancer diagnoses for the first time ever in 2024, with more than 64,530 expected to occur in Michigan.

Cancer continues to be the second most common cause of death among Americans, after heart disease.

To help end cancer as we know it for everyone, the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Canton Plymouth will be held  May 18 at Heritage Park in Canton.

“Relay For Life is more than just a walk. It is a volunteer-led movement that unites communities to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost to cancer and raise funds to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families,” said Alexis Velazquez, a senior development manager for the American Cancer Society.

“Thanks to that shared passion, we are working to help the American Cancer Society advance its mission through advocacy, research and patient support in an effort to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer.”

The Relay For Life of Canton Plymouth is a 12-hour event, beginning at 10 a.m. and ending at 10 p.m.

Plenty to do

Participants are welcome to come as they are able, enjoy live entertainment and different activities.

For those that would like to have a “campsite” at Heritage Park, please contact Alexis at alexis.velazquez@cancer.org.

The day will start with Opening Ceremonies and the Survivor and Caregiver Celebration at 11 a.m., with the survivor and caregiver luncheon following at noon. Survivors are invited to register online a relayforlife.org/cantonplymouthmi and redeem their free survivor shirt prior to Relay For Life.

In addition, an inspiring Luminaria Ceremony to remember and honor those who have been diagnosed with cancer  is set for 9 .m. Participants can decorate Luminaria bags in honor of their loved ones and see them light the path around the park while participants take their final lap of Relay in silence.

Founded by Dr. Gordy Klatt in Tacoma, Washington, in 1985, Relay For Life unites communities across the globe to celebrate people who have been touched by cancer, remember loved ones lost and take action for lifesaving change.

Billions raised

Relay For Life has raised $6.9 billion to help save lives from cancer.

The Relay For Life of Canton Plymouth is celebrating 25 years in the community and its organizers are thankful for all the generous support throughout the years.

In 2023 alone, the Relay For Life of Canton Plymouth raised over $100,000 for the mission of the American Cancer Society and it is working towards the goal of $100,000 again in 2024.

Dollars raised each year by more than 250,000 Relay participants across the country help support the American Cancer Society’s mission in countless ways, including funding and conducting breakthrough research, providing education and advocating for the needs of cancer patients and their families, and providing essential services throughout their cancer journey.

Want to get involved?

There are many ways to get involved in Relay For Life, including:

*  Join a Relay community to connect with survivors, caregivers, and others impacted by cancer in your local community;

*  Visit RelayForLife.org to sign up for Relay and join your community in the fight against cancer; and

* Donations fuel the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer. Visit RelayForLife.org/Donate or donate to your own team today.

To learn more about Relay For Life, visit RelayForLife.org or Relayforlife.org/cantonplymouthmi.