The South Puget Sound is home to American Cancer Society’s signature peer-to-peer fundraising event, the Relay For Life of Tacoma-Puget Sound.

Founded in 1985 on the track at the University of Puget Sound, local oncologist Dr. Gordy Klatt committed to walking and running for 24 hours to raise money and awareness for the American Cancer Society. He completed a grueling 83.6 miles, raising $27,000 for the American Cancer Society. The next year, 19 teams joined him and a global phenomenon was born. Now Relay For Life is hosted in over 31 countries world wide, and raises $65,000,000+ annually to support our vision: to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.

Volunteer led and driven, Relay For Life is more than an event, it is an inspiration. It unites communities dedicated to making an impact on cancer. It is through community events like Relay that we can raise funds for cancer research, lobby for legislative change to improve patient care, reduce barriers to care, and provide services to those who need it most.

This year, we are celebrating our 40th anniversary and we would love for you to join us as we reflect upon our achievements made possible due to the support of Relayers.