Mercy College is taking a stand against cancer by participating in Relay for Life on April 6 through April 7, from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. in the Victory gymnasium.

Through fundraising and endless hours of preparing for the event, Mercy College students are excited to be a part of a cause that brings everyone together to fight a disease that affects millions of people around the world.

Partnered with the American Cancer Society (ACS), the 24 hour event raises money to find a cure for cancer, celebrate those who have won the battle against the “Big C”, and remember the lives that were lost during their own battles against cancer.

When Dr. Gordy Klatt first walked a track for 24 hours in Tacoma, Washington, he raised $27,000 for ACS. Today, there are over 5,600 Relay for Life events across the country, and it has raised over $4 billion.

According to ACS, one in three people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Every dollar raised through Relay for Life events will go to those who are battling cancer and finding a cure to eliminate cancer once and for all.

So far, there are 153 participants and 27 teams registered for the Relay for Life event at Mercy College. Together, these teams have raised over $8,000, and will continue fundraising until they reach their goal of $35,000. This is the first time Mercy College is hosting the event on campus, and students seem very excited about participating.

“It’s a wonderful experience, and I’m happy to be a part of it,” said Quest Morris, captain of the relay team The Irish Rovers.

Whether they’re supporting a friend, or walking for a loved one who has experienced cancer first hand, students find this a great cause to be a part of. Relay For Life isn’t only for celebrating those who have won the battle for cancer, it’s also a healing experience for those who have lost a loved one to cancer.

“I’ve never been a part of something so big before! I’m walking for my grandfather, and for those who have lost their lives to this horrible disease,” explained Sydney DiBernardino, a sophomore and first time participant for Relay for Life.

With the event 21 days away, the excitement only continues to grow. It isn’t too late to join in the fight for cancer. For more information on the event, please contact [email protected].