More than 3,000 members of the Virginia Tech community will fight against cancer Friday, April 24 on the Drillfield in the eighth annual Virginia Tech Relay For Life.

This marks the first year that the Student Government Association at Virginia Tech and university officials worked together to schedule the event to take place on the Virginia Tech Drillfield.

“Holding Relay For Life on the Drillfield is an amazing opportunity to bring students and community members together on the symbolic heart of our campus and to show this university and the nation that Virginia Tech is serious about the fight against cancer,” said Christopher Armstrong, co-director for Virginia Tech Relay For Life.

In 2008, with the support of more than 300 teams, the chapter raised more than $294,000 and was ranked the first collegiate Relay per capita in the nation. While last year’s accomplishments set unprecedented national standards, the Virginia Tech community is committed to fight until a cure is found.

In celebration of 25 years of Relay For Life events bringing hope to communities worldwide, the Virginia Tech community will honor cancer survivors in an opening ceremony at 6 p.m. The Fight Back ceremony scheduled for 6 a.m. Saturday, April 25 will conclude the event and encourage participants to continue their fight against cancer, so that one day their children won’t have to Relay.

This year’s theme is “Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back.” Virginia Tech and the surrounding Blacksburg community will celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost as they walk the Drillfield and fight back against the deadly disease by competing in various field games, enjoying free food, and experiencing a wide variety of entertainment.

Community members can make a commitment to saving lives by visiting the event’s website to sign up and start fundraising.

For specific information relating to logistical planning, event schedules, fundraising efforts, sponsorship opportunities or procedures on April 24 through 25, contact Alice Wagner or Chris Armstrong through the Student Government Association office at 321 Squires Student Center or (540) 231-9879.

Virginia Tech Relay For Life is a program of the Student Government Association at Virginia Tech and a member of the South Atlantic Division of the American Cancer Society.

Written by Christopher Armstrong.

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