In 1985, one doctor's determination to circle a high school track for 24 straight hours, totaling 83 grueling miles, raised $27,000.  Dr. Gordy Klatt's vision, now known as the Relay For Life, is the American Cancer Society's volunteer driven, community event. 

            This inspiring overnight event unites the entire community in celebrating those who have had cancer, remembering loved ones lost and providing an opportunity to fight back against the disease. Relay For Life supports the society's mission to save lives by helping people stay well, by helping people get well, by finding cures and by fighting back.

            Relayers work tirelessly to raise awareness and money to aid in cancer research, as well as fund patient services and educational programs. The event was created to remember those who have passed, celebrate the survivors and to fight back against the future of cancer.

            The 2017 Relay For Life of Upper Perkiomen will begin at 6 p.m. Friday, June 2 and continue until 2 p.m. Saturday, June 3 at the Upper Hanover Township's Camelot Park, 1124 Church Road, East Greenville.

            In the months leading up to the event, and even during the Relay, teams raise money to help lead the fight for a world without cancer.  Entry to the event is free; however, many fundraising opportunities are available.

            In addition to team fundraising and activities both days and food trucks, a "Touch-a-Truck" will be held on Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and the canine walk, "Bark For Life," begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday.

            Join the fight against cancer and the movement to create a world with more birthdays, by participating in the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life.

            Money raised by Relay For Life of Upper Perkiomen helps the American Cancer Society's research program, as well as patient services such as Road To Recovery, Look Good…Feel Better, Reach To Recovery and Hope Lodge.

            For more information on how to participate, please visit www.RelayForLife.org/PAUpperPerk or call Bridget Kehoe at (404) 329-5134.