Lincoln-Sudbury’s annual Relay for Life took place this Saturday at Peter Noyes Elementary School, their first in-person event in three years. Through various fundraising efforts before and during the event, 14 teams consisting of L-S community members were able to raise $61,892 for the American Cancer Society, surpassing the goal of $50,000. The funds raised will allow the American Cancer Society to continue cancer research, advocate for cancer-related policy changes, and provide emotional and financial support to those affected by cancer. 

The event kicked off with a speech from L-S alum Jess Crane and the customary survivors’ lap around the track. After the opening ceremonies concluded, the festivities began. Teams offered a variety of goods and services to fundraise for the American Cancer Society, including (but not limited to) wagon rides around the track, a life-size game of “Candy Land,” sustainable tote bags, and playing lacrosse. Relay participants also could enjoy ice cream from Sudbury’s newly-opened New City Microcreamery in the ninety-degree heat. Special activities and performances were sprinkled throughout the 12-hour-long event, including a Zumba session led by Laura Erb; performances by The Performing Arts Connection’s Eclipse Dance Team as well as L-S’ student-run a cappella groups; and late-night games of Capture The Flag, Musical Chairs, and Minute to Win It. 

As the sun set on the track, L-S community members Jenn and Jonathan Wall shared the moving story of their son, Zach, who passed away in November 2021 after a nearly-11-month-long fight with cancer. Immediately following their presentation, the Luminaria ceremony took place, during which participants placed glow sticks in bags decorated in honor or in memory of a loved one with cancer that lined the track. Relay – as always – is a celebration, but also a reminder of the realities that those battling cancer every day face. 

The L-S community was thrilled to bring back such a beloved event: “Relay’s just a great community event. I’ve been doing it for 7 years, and every year I get to see new and old faces,” said L-S senior and Event Leadership Team member Christine Kinzfogl. She encourages those who are interested to get involved. Whether it be by raising money in a team, getting involved in L-S’s Event Leadership Team, or simply showing up to show support, your contributions can make a difference.