HISTORY OF RFL

Relay for Life (RFL) began in 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon from Tacoma, Washington, sought to enhance the income of his local American Cancer Society office.

Dr. Klatt spent 24 hours circling a track at Baker Stadium at the University of Puget Sound, raising $27,000 as friends, family, and patients donated to walk or run alongside him.

Inspired by this success, Dr. Klatt and his supporters created the first team-based Relay for Life event in 1986, engaging 19 teams and raising $33,000.

Over the years, RFL evolved into a worldwide movement, spanning across more than 20 countries and involving millions of participants annually.

This grassroots campaign has since generated billions of dollars, fueling groundbreaking cancer research, patient services, prevention efforts, and advocacy initiatives.

RFL’s legacy continues to thrive, embodying the power of community and collective effort in the ongoing fight against cancer.