​As we prepare to celebrate 40 years of Relay For Life in 2025, this milestone marks an extraordinary moment of reflection, celebration, and renewed determination. Relay’s rich history reminds us of the power of community and hope in ending cancer as we know it, for everyone.​

​It all started in May 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon from Tacoma, Washington, walked and ran for 24 hours to honor his patients and raise funds for the American Cancer Society. His determination inspired what we now know as Relay For Life—a global movement uniting millions of people in over 30 countries to fight cancer.

During the past 40 years, Relay For Life has raised more than $7 billion to fund critical cancer research, advocacy, and patient support programs. But beyond fundraising, Relay has become a community—a home for thousands of survivors, caregivers, and volunteers to find strength and hope.​

“Relay For Life is more than a fundraising event—it’s a movement powered by volunteers’ passion, resilience, and the unwavering belief that they can make a difference,” said Bryan Sherwood, senior director, Relay For Life. “As we look to the future, we’re committed to growing Relay’s impact and creating new opportunities for everyone to get involved both here in the US and in 34 other global partner countries around the world.”

Get involved in the 40th year of Relay For Life!

​Register today for your local Relay For Life event at RelayForLife.org. Together, we’ll make Relay For Life’s 40th year a shining example of what we can accomplish when we unite for a common cause. Here’s to 40 years of hope—and to the brighter future we’re building, one step at a time.