Each year across the nation, the event brings together entire communities to take part in the fight against cancer. Not just an opportunity to celebrate those who have survived cancer and remember those who were lost, the Relay For Life helps the American Cancer Society work toward a mission of eliminating cancer as a major health issue and supports much-needed services in the community.
This year’s event has already raised more than $33,000 in team donations, luminaria sales, and sponsorships, with donations still coming in on the web. Through Tuesday, the WKU Football White Team — consisting of players on the offensive side of the ball — raised $4,089.16, almost double the total of $2,050 raised by the WKU Football Red Team (defensive players).
Only the Community Education team, with more than $3,600, surpassed the Hilltopper defense.
“We appreciate every team that participated, but especially the football team because they are so well-recognized on campus. It was great to have 100-plus men agree to take on this effort to fight the battle against cancer,” said Marilee Forrest, Development Representative for the American Cancer Society. “I feel like many of the members of the football team took it up as a personal battle too, whether they have had family members or friends affected by cancer.
“Not only did they raise a lot of money, they showed great support the night of the event.”
The White Team earned two honors for their efforts, picking up awards for raising the most money both overall and on-line among the 27 participating teams.
“The future of Relay For Life is on-line donating,” Forrest added. “They really understood that and took off with it, setting up web sites and e-mailing family members, friends, students and faculty members asking for donations. A large portion of the money they raised came through that.”
According to head coach David Elson, he looks forward to not only seeing his program help the Relay For Life grow but increase its involvement in more charitable efforts throughout the community.
“I am extremely proud of the way our players got involved with Relay for Life,” he said. “One of the things we are trying to teach our young men is the importance of giving back to your community and getting involved with different charitable organizations. We are looking forward to making this a tradition and help make WKU’s Relay for Life one of the best in the country.”
