DANBURY, CONN. — The American Cancer Society’s signature event, “Relay for Life,” gives every person in any community the opportunity to participate in the fight against cancer. Western Connecticut State University will host the 24-hour event that will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 30, and end at 6 a.m. on Saturday, March 31, 2012, in the Feldman Arena of the O’Neill Center on the university’s Westside campus, 43 Lake Ave. Extension in Danbury.

Teams of 10-15 people have the chance to get together for the night, have fun and raise funds for the fight against cancer. Each team is asked to have a team member walking at all times, keeping the idea in mind that “cancer doesn’t sleep, so neither do we.” Throughout the Relay, survivors are honored and a moment of silence is taken to remember loved ones lost to the disease.

According to Debbie Ferreira, staff member for the American Cancer Society’s Danbury branch, 40 groups from the university are currently signed up for the event but they are hoping to add several more groups to the list. The groups so far include sports teams, sororities, fraternities and various student clubs. Registration is still open and faculty, staff and members of the community are invited to get involved. Survivors from the WCSU community are encouraged to attend the Relay to be honored for their fight against cancer.

“Last year the event brought in $33,000,” Ferreira said, “This year our goal is $35,000.”

The 2012 theme is “50 States of Relay.” Teams will select states to use as their campsite decorations and fundraising theme. Entertainment will be provided throughout the night including live performances, games, zumba and refreshments.

According to the WCSU Relay for Life Facebook page, “Relay for Life is a life-changing event that brings together 3.5 million people to: celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer. The strength of survivors inspires others to continue to fight. Remember loved ones lost to the disease. At Relay, people who have walked alongside people battling cancer can grieve and find healing. Fight Back. We Relay because we have been touched by cancer and desperately want to put an end to the disease.”

For more information, visit www.relayforlife.org/westconn.

 

Western Connecticut State University offers outstanding faculty in a range of quality academic programs. Our diverse university community provides students an enriching and supportive environment that takes advantage of the unique cultural offerings of Western Connecticut and New York. Our vision: To be an affordable public university with the characteristics of New England’s best small private universities.