Relay For Life raises €4.4m for cancer patients

Fighting back against cancer: Communities celebrate decade of funding crucial cancer care, cancer survivorship and remembering lives lost to cancer

Communities across Ireland have raised over €4.4million for cancer patients by passing on the Relay For Life baton for a decade.

Relay For Life is a 24 hour community event that celebrates the lives of cancer survivors, remembers those lost to the disease and encourages people to fight back by raising awareness of cancer and funding vital research and support services of the Irish Cancer Society.

Relay For Life first began in Ireland in 2009, and since then 25 communities across the country have hosted close to 100 relay events, raising over €4.4m between them. This money has been invested in cancer research projects and a range of free support services to help those affected by cancer.

Cancer survivor Amy Mahon, who was named Ireland’s Hero of Hope last year for her involvement in Relay for Life Kildare said, “I was a 29-year-old single mum when I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. It was a tough battle, but thanks to the advances made by cancer research I am still here with my son. More people like me will be diagnosed with cancer this year. I relay to ensure they have the best chance of beating their cancer, and to ensure they have the best support every step of the way.”

Averil Power, Chief Executive of the Irish Cancer Society said, “The incredible achievement of those who have participated in Relay For Life over the last decade has contributed greatly to the fight against cancer. This support has enabled us to invest in lifesaving cancer research, and today six out of ten people can expect to survive their cancer diagnosis, compared to three out of ten 30 years ago.

“This money has also funded practical supports like our Volunteer Driver Service, which helps patients get to their chemotherapy treatment. When Relay began ten years ago the service operated in just one hospital. Last year 1,500 patients were brought to 12,000 chemotherapy appointments. To support the thousands of people who will need help in the future we need to continue to rally together against cancer. Relay For Life is a powerful way for communities to do just that.”

Each Relay For Life event is organised by a dedicated local volunteer committee, supported by Irish Cancer Society. Anyone is welcome to get involved in Relay for Life.

For more information on Relay For Life events in Ireland, or to start one in your community, visit www.cancer.ie/relay.