Cannon participated for the first time in 2002 with 4 teams supporting the American Cancer Society and Gwinnett County efforts in the fight against cancer. In the last 8 years Cannon has had over 63 teams and 680 team members rally together to raise over $178,000 winning awards for Money Raised and Best Campsite many of those years. More importantly, we have rallied around members of our own congregation and community who have either lost their battle with cancer or are fighting to win the battle. It gives our church and our Cancer Ministry another opportunity to reach out to others as we seek to support those individuals who have faced cancer – through either their own diagnosis or that of a family member, friend or co-worker. Our Prayer Bearer Ministry has also made a big impact by donating over 170 bears in the last 3 years to the Honorary Chairs that lead the Survivor Walk at the event. Cannon is dedicated and committed to serving others and one of the ways we do this is by playing our part in the fight against cancer!
Relay for Life represents the HOPE that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day cancer will be eliminated.
Relay for Life is the signature fundraising event of the American Cancer Society to support its programs of research, cancer control, advocacy, and patient services. The event is held in every state in the nation as well as worldwide. In 2007 Relay for Life raised over $405 million nationwide with more than 4800 events. In 1999, the Gwinnett Relay was the first in the world to raise more than $1 million and in 2001 was the first to exceed $2 million. In 2008, Gwinnett celebrated its 15th Anniversary of Relay for Life and raised over $2.5 million putting them at a combined total of over $22 million since their first event. This shows that the Gwinnett community is serious about taking up the fight against cancer!
Relay for Life is an overnight team event that celebrates survivors while at the same time increasing cancer awareness. Businesses, schools, churches, neighborhoods and civic organizations form teams. Members of teams take turns walking around a track throughout the night and into the morning to symbolize that cancer does not sleep and that we will not rest until we find a cure. Teams are often formed to rally around a family member, friend, or co-worker who is fighting or has lost their battle with cancer.
It has been said that Relay for Life is one huge support group. Cancer survivors and caregivers begin the event by walking a lap cheered on by thousands of people who line the track to applaud them in celebration of their lives. A Luminary Ceremony takes place later in the evening where bagged votives are lit in honor and memory of those touched by cancer. They burn throughout the night and serve to remind everyone of the reason for the event.