Global Relay For Life
Global Relay For Life celebrates survivors, remembers loved ones lost, and mobilizes communities to take a stand against cancer.
What started with one person in the US in 1985 to raise money and awareness has become a true global movement against cancer, uniting people in 35 countries (Figure 44.1) to do what no one country or organization can do alone: build a world free from cancer. Across the globe, the American Cancer Society Relay For Life® program fosters hope, healing, and inspiration in more than 3,000 communities (Figure 44.2).
Global Relay For Life countries and representatives, 2024
Global Relay For Life data
The Global Relay For Life® program engages global organizations to empower communities and accelerate the fight for a world without cancer. Across the world, cancer organizations are using the Relay For Life program as a platform to deliver on their mission.
The program is driven by volunteers who contribute to various facets of the program, including training, partner support, social media, survivorship programs, cancer advocacy, and data analysis. At the Danish Cancer Society, they use Relay For Life to extend their advocacy initiatives by engaging participants, survivors, and volunteers in anti-tobacco and caregiver advocacy events. The Cancer Association of South Africa’s Relay For Life events engage diverse communities who come together to fight a common enemy. The Canadian Cancer Society has a large Relay For Life high school program that educates students about cancer prevention at an early age, above and beyond getting youth engaged in volunteering and fundraising for the organization.
The funds raised by Global Relay For Life are invested around the globe in cancer research, prevention, advocacy, and support of those impacted by cancer. This diverse network of passionate Relay For Life participants is bringing hope and support to millions of people impacted by cancer across the globe. To learn more about the Relay For Life movement, please visit relayforlife.org/global.
“It’s a wonderful and humbling experience to support others who are uniting to create a world where everybody lives longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer. Together we are beating cancer.”
Survivor Stories
Jakob Bouse, Canada
I was diagnosed with a brain tumor on March 21, 2015. As someone fighting a brain tumor everyday, it’s infinitely meaningful to see the outpouring of support at every Relay event. My involvement with Relay has been unforgettable so far, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Satsuki Mimuro, Japan
Relay For Life changed my life and wiped away the anxiety after the diagnosis. My life after the diagnosis has always been with Relay For Life. It taught me how important it is to appreciate simple things and ordinary days. The passion and compassion of Relayers always gives me hope and energy. I am determined to keep Relaying to pass the baton of hope onto the future where cancer is no longer a life-threatening disease.
Michael Williams, South Africa
In June 2021 I was diagnosed with lymphoma. I started chemotherapy treatment, and I was fortunate enough to be declared cancer free in January 2022! At this point I knew I wanted to give back to my community, focusing on cancer awareness for men. I enjoy being at our CANSA Relay For Life events, and this is my community where I feel welcomed. My involvement in CANSA Relay For Life helps me to motivate others and spread the message that as a survivor, you can overcome your disease.
Dorte Dalhoff, Denmark
In 2019 I took part in Relay For Life for the first time. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017, and received chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy. Taking part in Relay hit me deep in my heart. Until 2022, I participated in Relay for Life as a survivor and as a volunteer. However, in autumn 2022, I also experienced becoming a caregiver when my father was diagnosed with cancer. In 2023, I walked the first and last lap together with my father, and I will also do so again this year. Volunteering for Relay for Life has given me so much meaning – I know this is where I belong.
Global Heroes of Hope
The Global Relay For Life Heroes of Hope program elevates selected cancer survivors who not only contribute to their local Relay but also fight cancer in a broader way.
Representing their cancer charities, Heroes must be comfortable sharing their cancer story in public and connecting it to the impact of the organization. These ambassadors inspire others in their fight against cancer. As of 2024, we have welcomed a total of 362 Heroes from the beginning of the program and have active Heroes in 21 countries.
