The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Barrington

In May 1985, Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon and avid runner, took the first step of his 24-hour walk/run around a track in Tacoma, Washington. He clocked 83 miles, raising $27,000 to support the American Cancer Society. The following year, 220 supporters on 19 teams joined Dr. Klatt in this overnight event, and the American Cancer Society Relay For Life was born.

Over the last 17 years, Relay For Life has spread to 3,000 communities in the United States and seven foreign countries. What began as one man’s statement in the fight against cancer has led to the development of a worldwide event to help banish cancer.