Linnea Noeldner-

On April 4th, 2025, beginning at 5 p.m., the American Cancer Society will hold its Relay for Life event in Lund Green. Relay for Life commemorates those fighting against cancer and those who have survived cancer. The friends, family, and community of such individuals will join them on a day of celebration, and Gusties are encouraged to participate as well. 

The event will begin with a block party, a ring of different organizations around campus joining together to celebrate with different activities at each table. Attendees are able to play water pong for a small fee, which will add to their donation.  

For those seeking a competitive challenge, there will be a Chuck Norris burger eating contest, a unique way to get involved while contributing to the cause. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the Gustavus Dance Collective and the Acapella choir will perform, showcasing the campus’ talent and spirit. 

One of the favorite parts of the Relay for Life event is the Luminaria time, a lit-up paper bag in honor of a loved one affected by cancer. Participants receive lights and glow sticks as the Acapella choir performs, celebrating both survivors and those lost to cancer.  

Remembering and commemorating those who have fought against cancer is the focus of Relay for Life, and this time is one of the central parts to reflect and recognize those in your life, family, friends, or otherwise. 

“Relay for Life reframes the journey and allows people to re-engage in a community setting.  Their struggles of family members and cancer are often encapsulated within themselves and it’s time to see communality between even just the 2,000 people at Gustavus,” Co-President of the American Cancer Society and Senior Victor Solano said. 

The event comes through to show the true values of what it means to be a Gustie, highlighting the commonality between the attendees who can be both survivors or supporters. Some describe the event as feeling faith-based, despite there being no direct religious affiliation.

“It’s faith, but in a different light. Not necessarily religious faith, but in this event there’s a heaviness in the room, but there’s also a light in the room. I think that light and the collective strength of it is what gives everybody in that room faith that there will be progress in cancer research and cancer treatment. We will get better, and this is not the end of the road,” Solano said. 

Relay for Life has been happening at Gustavus since 2003 and involves the broader community, with businesses donating and giving back to the cause. In addition to the donating, people who have donated the most are able to receive prizes which include, but are not limited to, gift cards to businesses like Steakhouse and 3rd Street Tavern, a stay at Mystic Lake, and more. 

While the Gustavus community is heavily involved in the event, the broader community of businesses and donors also help make it happen. The more awareness and light brought to Relay for Life, the better for everyone. At the end of the day, it’s a time for community celebration full of recognizing the difficulty and struggles in the fight against cancer. It truly shows the creation of a network of support that extends far beyond the campus. 

The American Cancer Society will be tabling outside The Caf beginning on Monday, March 31st, where you can sign up and donate in addition to the emails that have been sent out by Co-Production Chair for ACS and Sophomore, Rae Holwerda. In the process of signing up, you can also select a donation button of $25 that goes towards your initial donation and guarantees you a t-shirt and a Luminaria bag. 

In addition to fundraising, the purpose of Relay for Life is to bring awareness to the journey and battle that people go through with cancer. Everyone is welcome to Relay for Life, whether they go to Gustavus or not. 

At its core, Relay for Life is a celebration of life, strength, and community. It’s a chance for people to reflect on the struggles of others but also to recognize the courage and resilience that define the human spirit. By participating in this event, individuals not only raise awareness for a critical cause but also honor the survivors, those still battling, and the lives lost in the fight against cancer. The sense of unity, faith, and optimism that permeates Relay for Life at Gustavus makes it a truly special event, one that reflects the heart and soul of the Gustavus community.