10/25/2025
As we commemorate 40 Years of Impact with Relay For Life, we celebrate the extraordinary journey that began with Dr. Gordy Klatt’s vision in 1985. His 24-hour marathon around a Tacoma track sparked a global movement, uniting communities to fight back against cancer. Over the decades, Relay For Life has transformed into a worldwide symbol of hope, remembrance, and collective determination, raising funds and awareness to support the American Cancer Society’s mission. This timeline honors the milestones, the volunteers, the survivors, and every step taken towards ending cancer as we know it, for everyone. Together, we reflect on our shared history and look forward to continuing our work for the next 40 years and beyond.