2017 Relay:
The popularity of "Relay" in Salem has gone down because of competition from neighboring towns. The council supports "Relay" with money and also by providing chairs and tables for the "Survivors Tent." This year of 2017, we did not have an official team nor a team tent. The 2016 Relay turned in scant funds compared to the hours of service put in, thus causing the council to down-size our effort. Sometimes, there are just too many competing events calling for help to accomdate everyone.
2015 Relay:
Under the dedicated leadership of Brother MIchael Banks and in partnership with the Kiwanis Club of Salem, NH, Council 4442 is pleased to support and participate in the American Cancer Society's annual Relay for Life.
This year's Relay for Life was held on June 20, 2015 11 AM- 11:00PM at Salem High School's Grant Field.
Courtesy of the Relay for Life Event Website:
The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, to remember loved ones lost, and to fight back against the disease. At Relay Salem, teams of people camp out on Grant Field at Salem High School and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events up to 24 hours in length.
Although every Relay For Life is different, there are certain traditions at all Relays, no matter where they are held. These traditions help participants celebrate, remember, and fight back.
Celebrate - The Survivors Lap
Relay starts with a Survivors Lap an inspirational time when survivors are invited to circle the track together and help everyone celebrate the victories we’ve achieved over cancer. The Survivors Lap is an emotional example of how Relay participants are creating a world with more birthdays like those of each individual on the track.
Remember - The Luminaria Ceremony
After dark, we honor people who have been touched by cancer and remember loved ones lost to the disease during the Luminaria Ceremony. Candles are lit inside bags filled with sand, each one bearing the name of a person touched by cancer, and participants often walk a lap in silence.
Fight Back - The Fight Back Ceremony
Last, there is a Fight Back Ceremony, where we make a personal commitment to save lives by taking up the fight against cancer.
