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Relay For Life celebrates 40 years

Nancy Simpson/The Madera Tribune File Photo

Participants of the 2024 Relay For Life walk in the Survivor’s Lap at Lions Town and Country Park. This year marks the organization’s 40th anniversary.

 

This year, Relay For Life is celebrating its 40th year.


It all began in 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon in Washington, had an idea for a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.


He ran around a track for 24 hours at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma to raise money for cancer research. He raised $27,000 that year. At some points, Klatt slowed down to a walk, but he kept going. At the end of the 24 hours, Klatt had made it 83 miles.

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