Relay for Life Rounds Up Support with Wild West Spirit

With more than $31,000 raised, about 200 attendees, and the enthusiastic support of more than 30 student organizations and campus offices, this year’s Relay for Life saw the DeSales community stand in unity in the fight against cancer.

This year marked the 20th anniversary of Relay for Life being hosted at DeSales through the hard work of the Colleges Against Cancer club. For the first time in its history, the event was held at Billera Hall.

“Having it at Billera really allowed us to expand our reach into the community, which in the end helped us raise the most we have in the history of Relay at DeSales,” said Evan Colburn ’26, the club’s current president, whose mother and grandmother both fought cancer. “It has been amazing to see this event grow since its restart during COVID.”

This year’s theme, Wild West, inspired a lively atmosphere with cowboy hats, bandanas, and western-themed decorations, all while celebrating survivors, remembering those lost, and raising crucial funds for cancer research, treatment, and support.

The night began with a special cancer survivor dinner, providing survivors and their families a time of reflection and community. Following the dinner, several cancer survivors and fighters took to the stage to share their powerful stories of strength and perseverance. Student organizations and campus offices also hosted fundraising activities—from face painting to 3D printing capybaras—to raise funds to fight cancer.

As the night drew to a close, everyone gathered for the remembrance lap in honor of those whose lives were taken by cancer. The path was lined with decorated bags, each baring the name of a loved one lost. The path was illuminated by glowing candles placed inside each bag, reminding everyone not just of the lives of those who passed, but of the love that endures and the hope that fuels those currently impacted by cancer.

“It’s one thing to hear people say, ‘We support you,’ but it’s profoundly different to see it,” shared Connor McGill ’25, a computer science major, whose mother is currently battling cancer. “Standing here with my mom, surrounded by this community actively participating, it’s the physical embodiment of care. Every person walking the track, every luminaria lit, validates our journey and shows us in a very real way that people care deeply, and that means more than words can say.”