The American Cancer Society estimates about 23,360 Louisiana residents will receive a cancer diagnosis in 2008. This is about 25 percent of fans in Tiger Stadium on a Saturday night. The University will host its third annual Relay for Life tonight from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. tomorrow at the Carl Maddox Field House. Relay for Life is the signature fundraising event for the American Cancer Society. The overnight event honors those who have lost the fight against cancer and honors those who have survived. “It’s a unique event that offers everyone in the LSU community an opportunity to participate in the fight against cancer,” said Loren Stelly, event co-chair for Relay for Life of LSU. Stelly said this year’s goal is to raise $50,000. Currently, $15,887.58 has been raised. “We will be raising money until August, and hopefully with the support from the LSU community, we will be able to exceed our goal,” Stelly said. All proceeds are donated to the American Cancer Society and go toward research and education. So far, 29 teams and 307 participants have signed up. Each of the teams will have a campsite designed around this year’s theme, “Louisiana Friday Night.” “It’s like the song, but we changed it to Friday,” said Allison Hughes, team recruiter. Hughes said each team will host different games and activities to raise money. Prizes will be awarded to the teams that raise the most. Stelly said a wide variety of events will be available throughout the night, such as a “Dude Looks Like a Lady” womanless beauty contest, a “no-talent” talent show and frozen chicken bowling. The luminary ceremony will be held at 10 p.m. “This is a time where we turn off all the lights, light our luminary candles and reflect on loved ones who have both lost and won their battles against this disease,” Stelly said. During this year’s ceremony, Vickey Barrett, social work doctoral student, will be honored. She is currently fighting against the disease. Stelly said she is certain Relay for Life will be a success. She said she hopes for a great turnout. “Cancer is a disease that has affected everyone, everywhere, so this common factor gives the LSU community a reason to join together in the fight,” Stelly said.
—-Contact Leslie Presnall at [email protected]