Relay for Life is a nationwide event led by the American Cancer Society (ACS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to cancer research, patient care, and advocacy. The funds raised through Relay for Life support programs, such as Hope Lodge, which provides free lodging for patients receiving treatment far from home, and Road to Recovery, which offers transportation to and from medical appointments. Additionally, ACS works with lawmakers across the country to pass legislation that improves cancer care and prevention. Currently, they are funding over $516 million in research, including five active research grants in New Jersey. 

West Morris Relay for Life is more than just a lap around the track; it’s a celebration of survivors, a recognition of caregivers, and a commemoration of our loved ones who have passed due to cancer. Each year, our community comes together to support the American Cancer Society and its mission. This year’s event will take place on May 30, 2025, at the West Morris Mendham High School football field, running from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, or overnight until 5:00 AM. The 2025 theme, “Be Bold”, is all about showing courage and standing strong together, symbolized by wearing bold colors. 

Since September, the West Morris Relay for Life Event Leadership Team (ELT), made up of high school students, has been working hard behind the scenes. They have organized fundraisers throughout Long Valley, Chester, Mendham, and in both high schools, managing everything from planning and marketing to logistics. Their dedication is what makes this event possible each year. One ELT member from Mendham High School says, “Relay has helped me make new, lasting friendships with other ELT members, and fosters a sense of community within the West Morris area”. In addition to our ELT’s incredible work, our registered teams have been raising money on their own to help us reach our ultimate goal: ending cancer as we know it, for everyone. On the night of the event, there will be a special dinner for survivors and caregivers, a luminaria ceremony, speeches from individuals impacted by cancer, live music from local performers, and a variety of fun activities for all ages. A participant from last year’s Relay says, “My favorite part was playing spikeball with my friends and getting my face painted.” And of course, the centerpiece of the night is the 12-hour symbolic walk, where participants take turns walking the track to demonstrate their solidarity in the fight against cancer. 

Last year, the event raised an amazing $80,046 in donations, with 649 participants, 78 teams, and 31 survivors. This year, we hope to raise $100,000 and bring even more people together. Our current sponsors, including PNC Bank, Precision Spine and Support, Cheshire Soccer Academy, Gripp Plumbing and Heating, Terumo Medical, and Dimer Health, have already stepped up to support us, and we are still looking for more businesses and organizations to join our cause! Relay for Life of West Morris is open to everyone: students, families, friends, and local businesses. Whether you walk, donate, sponsor, or just come to support, your presence makes a difference. Together, we honor the past, fight in the present, and hope for a cancer-free future. You can register and find more information at www.relayforlife.org/westmorrisnj. We hope to see you there!