Uniting for a Cause: Lehigh’s Rally Against Cancer
Lehigh University’s Colleges Against Cancer successfully hosted its annual Relay for Life fundraiser on March 22 at Grace Hall, gathering significant support for the American Cancer Society. The event, themed “Under the Sea,” included a variety of engaging activities from 3 PM to 11 PM, with highlights like a mechanical shark capturing the attendees’ imagination. Liz Ingraham, President of the Colleges Against Cancer, noted the event’s symbolic nature, emphasizing the continuous and relentless fight against cancer.
Preparation and Community Involvement
The preparation for this grand event began nine months prior, with contributions from various university departments, including Lehigh After Dark and the President’s Office, showcasing a campus-wide commitment to the cause. Local businesses from Bethlehem also played a crucial role, donating generously to ensure the event’s success. Emma Moriarty, the Logistics Chair, described the event as a pivotal moment of unity for the Lehigh community, focusing on a shared goal of cancer awareness and support.
A Night of Remembrance and Hope
Throughout the evening, attendees engaged in heartfelt activities like writing names of affected loved ones on tribute posters and participating in themed events that fostered community bonding. The program also featured performances from the Lehigh Dance Team and the Gut Punch comedy club, adding a cultural dimension to the fundraiser. Colleges Against Cancer Co-President Quinn Klessel expressed the organization’s dedication to not just raising funds but also fostering an understanding of cancer’s impacts through such communal events.
Additional Beneficial Information for the Reader
Events like Relay for Life play a crucial role in cancer research fundraising by bringing communities together to honor survivors, remember those lost, and fight back against the disease. These events not only raise funds but also boost awareness about cancer prevention, treatments, and the need for continued research. They provide a platform for survivors and families to connect, share their stories, and find support among peers, which is invaluable during recovery and remembrance.
Participating in such events can significantly impact individuals and communities, providing them with the knowledge and means to support cancer research and patient care initiatives. It’s also an opportunity for volunteers and participants to develop organizational skills, engage in community service, and experience the gratification that comes from contributing to a significant cause. As these events continue to grow, they reinforce the importance of collective effort in the battle against cancer, underlining the powerful impact of solidarity in driving change and hope in the face of adversity.