After spending 12 hours in Blanton Park, the Coastal Carolina University community raised $82,877.04 in total on April 2 for the American Cancer Society.

Relay for Life began in May 1985 when Gordon Klatt walked and ran around a track for 24 hours straight in Tacoma, Washington, to raise money for the American Cancer Society. He raised more than $27,000 from pledges after walking and running 83.6 miles. A year later, 19 teams were a part of the first Relay for Life event.

Now, over 5,000 Relay for Life events take place every year.

According to the American Cancer Society, one in two men and one in three women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. For many people, participating in Relay for Life was a way to support loved ones who had been diagnosed with cancer and their caregivers.

Biology major Brooke Dimery said she plans to research cancer treatments on marine organisms in the future. She said she joined relay in honor of her mom, grandmother, and “everyone that is affected by this terrible disease.”

“Relay brings hope and awareness to everyone that is affected and the people who care for them,” Dimery said.

During the event, attendees were able to participate in a variety of games, such as water balloon toss, cornhole, and even ride a mechanical bull.

“My favorite part of Relay for Life was getting to walk with everyone,” Tristan Rice, a member of organizations Coastal Elasmobranch Society and The Sea Floor said. “They were all so kind and energetic.”

Coastal Carolina’s Relay for Life was organized by the membership team, which consisted of students and staff from all majors and departments. They fulfilled the American Cancer Society’s mission of saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a cancer free world.

On top of participating in games, teams were able to collect money by running raffles, games and much more.

“I enjoyed representing Phi Sigma Sigma and being able to make a difference in my community,” business management major Joann Nammachack said.

Later, a Luminaria ceremony was held in honor and remembrance of loved ones who were impacted by cancer. This was followed by a moment of silence for those whose lives were lost to cancer.

People can learn more about cancer and how to get involved at www.cancer.org.