In 2025, approximately 2.04 million new cancer cases and 318,120 deaths from cancer are expected to occur in the United States, with Pennsylvania alone accounting for over 90,000 new cases and 27,000 deaths. Cancer remains the second leading cause of death among Americans, following heart disease. To help fight this ongoing battle, the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Schuylkill County is set to take place on Saturday, June 14, at Bubeck Park in Schuylkill Haven, PA.
“Relay For Life is more than just a walk. It is a volunteer-led movement that unites communities to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost to cancer, and raise funds to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families,” said Trysha Nettles, event co-chair. “2025 marks 40 years nationwide of Relay For Life, and we are excited to continue this tradition to help advocate and find a cure. So many of us have been personally affected by cancer, whether as a survivor, a caregiver, or having lost someone close to us. Relay For Life is a way for us to honor those who have fought and continue to fight, by helping to put an end to cancer forever.”
Event Highlights
The 2025 Relay For Life will feature a variety of special activities, including:
- Opening Ceremony at noon
- Luminaria Ceremony at dusk
- 40th Anniversary and Flag Day Theme, incorporating a special flag retirement ceremony for veterans and service members
- Cancer Survivors Program, which includes light refreshments, gift bags, and a special guest speaker (free registration for all cancer survivors)
- Live Entertainment, featuring local band “P 71” (2-3 PM) and a performance by Dance Xplosion Gymnastics (6-7 PM)
- Field Games Area, offering fun games for children and adults alike
- Food Trucks, Concession Stands, and Vendors, providing a wide selection of food and shopping opportunities
A History of Making a Difference
Founded in 1985 by Dr. Gordy Klatt in Tacoma, Washington, Relay For Life has since united communities worldwide in the fight against cancer. Over the past 40 years, the event has raised nearly $7 billion to support cancer research, patient care, and advocacy efforts.
In 2024, Schuylkill County’s Relay For Life raised over $40,000. This year, the community aims to surpass that success with a fundraising goal of $50,000.
Ways to Get Involved
Community members and businesses can support Relay For Life in numerous ways:
- Join the Relay: Sign up at RelayForLife.org/schuylkillpa to participate and connect with others impacted by cancer.
- Donate: Contributions can be made at RelayForLife.org/Donate or directly to a Relay team.
- Become a Sponsor: Businesses can partner with Relay For Life to support the cause while gaining community recognition.
- Form a Team: Engage employees, friends, or family to participate in this meaningful event.
- Be a Vendor: Food vendors, crafters, and merchandise sellers are encouraged to set up at the event. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/relayvendor.
- Donate Raffle Items: The event’s Basket Raffle needs donations to help raise funds.
- Spread the Word: Businesses can display posters, fliers, or bookmarks to help promote the event. Contact pottsvillerelay@gmail.com to arrange a drop-off.
For additional details, visit RelayForLife.org/schuylkillpa or find “Relay For Life of Schuylkill County” on Facebook.
Together, Schuylkill County can take another step toward ending cancer as we know it—for everyone.