Hundreds of people walk with determination, footballs and frisbees whiz  through the air and stands sell a wide variety of food. It’s organized chaos, it’s Relay for Life. With around 3.5 million people participating annually, it’s one of the most prominent cancer awareness program, and all proceeds go to the American Cancer Society.

Relay For Life is focused on three main principles: celebrating survivors, remembering those who have lost their battle, and fighting back to prevent cancer.

The survivors take a victory lap together to kick off the Relay. Each team sets up a tent around the track to be able to fundraise on-site. Meanwhile, a single person from each team must always be walking laps, emphasizing the fact that “cancer never sleeps”. When darkness falls the Luminaria Ceremony begins, honoring those lost to cancer.

“Relay For Life is such an amazing way to help the on-going problem of cancer.” freshman Madeline Osburn said. Though this particular Relay for Life was not hosted at Langley, many Langley students still found the spirit to participate. People of all ages came to West Springfield High school, where the event was being held.

Dumbledore’s Army, a team from Langley, raised $2,798! Many generous people donated to the cause and they also raised money by selling baked goods at the event. “Relay for Life was so fun and it raised a ton of cancer awareness!” said Langley junior, Rorie McQuade.

There is another Relay that will take place June 12th at Herndon Middle School. There are two Langley teams preparing for the walk currently, but Langley students continue to sign up as Relay day comes closer.

The Langley teams “Elite Saxon Warriors” and “Maureen’s Relay” have already raised a total of $5,465. “I think that raising money for Relay for Life is much easier than I expected. People like to donate money to such an important cause.” said fundraiser Sophie Viar.

You can join any team, or create your own at www.relayforlife.org. There is a $10 registration fee, but no mandatory amount for fundraising. “I want to help those who lead hard lives fighting cancer.” freshman Lauren Sibley said. Whether it is to honor a loved one, celebrate a survivor, or simply support the cause, every student has their own reason to participate.