24 Teams to Participate in Woburn Relay for Life

Charlene Arsenault, Patch Staff contributed to this report.

WOBURN, MA — Dr. Gordy Klatt walked and ran for 24 hours around a track in Tacoma, WA, in 1985 and raised $27,000 for the American Cancer Society, assisting in its mission to fight cancer across the country.

The following year, 340 supporters joined in that effort. Now called the Relay for Life, this national movement and event has raised nearly $5 billion to fight cancer.

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Relay for Life is an organized, overnight community fundraising walk where teams of people camp out around a track, each of the members taking turns walking. Usually, this family friendly event is surrounded by games, entertainment and food.

Communities hold Relay for Life events across the country, and throughout the year - in New England starting in April and continuing through the fall.

24 teams accounting for 303 participants are taking part in a Relay for Life event on May 21 at Library Park Field. The event starts at 4 p.m.

Team We All Have an Angel leads the fundraising charge with $11,980 raised; followed by Kathy's Kampers with $11,233 and Cushing Crusaders with $5,656.

To donate, click here.

Photo via Relay for Life