Auburn University and The American Cancer Society hosted Relay for Life at the Beard-Eaves Memorial Coliseum Friday, April 3.
The event celebrates those who have won their battle with cancer, remembers those who did not and gives hope to those still fighting.
Sororities, fraternities and other campus organizations formed teams to fundraise.
The event began at six p.m. and lasted until six a.m. Saturday.
The swim team participated in memory of Ralph Crocker, their coach who passed away 2 years ago from cancer, and in honor of their current head coach, Richard Quick, who is currently battling the rarest and most aggressive type of brain cancer.
"Richard is a role model for all of our team and anyone who knows him," said Emilie Ewing, a senior on the women's swim and dive team. "He has taught us what it's like to keep fighting no matter the circumstances and to value everyone and everything that crosses our path."
At least one member from each team was walking around the track at all times. This was meant to symbolize how cancer never sleeps.
Approximately 422 Auburn students participated in this event.
Gamma Phi Beta raised the most money at the relay, closing in at $4,000.
"Gamma Phi raised money doing various things such as writing letters to family members, friends and alumni, asking for donations, having bake sells and asking restaurants around the area to sponsor dinners for our team," said Kristina Werner, a junior in communications. "During Relay we held a bake sell, played games, listened to music and walked laps to honor those who have lost their lives and are currently battling cancer."
The night's entertainment included, relay relays, movies and two local bands -- Auburn Road and Old Soul.
"We volunteered to play music at Relay for Life, because we felt it was a good opportunity to do something for the community and to do something that benefited others," said John Ross, Old Soul's bass player. "We were flattered that we were asked to play at such a meaningful event."
Anne Storrs, a senior in political science, is no stranger to participating in Relay for Life.
"I participated in Relay for Life for the seventh year in a row to support my Uncle Jim who is currently battling prostate cancer," Storrs said. "I think most people know someone that has been affected by cancer, and it is not only a good cause, but especially here at Auburn, it's a fun way to spend a Friday night."
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States with approximately 1,500 people dying each day. To find out more information about The American Cancer Society, visit www.cancer.org.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
