Relay For Life steps off March 29 in Lee County
The American Cancer Society is celebrating 40 years of impact through Relay For Life this year.
Founded by Dr. Gordy Klatt in Tacoma, Washington, in 1985, Relay For Life unites more than 1,200 communities across 35 countries to celebrate people who have been affected by cancer, remember loved ones lost and take action for lifesaving change. Since 1985, Relay For Life has raised $6.9 billion (about $21 per person in the US) to help save lives from cancer.
In 2025, the United States is expected to surpass 2 million new cancer diagnoses, with almost 172,000 expected to occur here in Florida.
Cancer continues to be the second most common cause of death among Americans, after heart disease.
To help end cancer as we know it for everyone, the American Cancer Society will host two Relay For Life events in Lee County, the other in Collier.
• Relay For Life of Greater Lee – Saturday, March 29
NeoGenomics, NeoGenomics Way, Fort Myers
• Relay For Life of Greater Collier – Friday, April 4
Aubrey Rogers High School, 15100 Patriot Place, Naples
“More than just a fundraising walk, Relay For Life is a beacon of hope, uniting communities in the fight against cancer. For 40 years, this movement has empowered individuals to make a difference, celebrating victories, honoring loved ones, sharing their stories, and striving for a world free from cancer. But we still have work to do. Every 15 seconds someone hears the words, you have cancer. Join the movement today as we strive to end cancer as we know it, for everyone,” organizers said.
Visit RelayForLife.org or relayforlife.org/greatercolliercountyfl to get involved and join your community in the fight against cancer.