Wakefield High School has proudly served the community by helping raise money in a fight to end cancer through Relay for Life, a community based fundraising event of the American Cancer Society.

“Each year, more than 5,000 Relay for Life events take place in over twenty countries. Events are held in local communities, campus universities, and in virtual worlds,” according to RelayforLife.org.

This year, students are participating in a soccer tournament during SMART lunch. Each team composed of about eight players has donated ten dollars to the American Cancer Society to fund cancer research.

The American Cancer Society has created programs that aid cancer patients in their everyday struggles. Various programs include: Hope Lodge, where patients can stay while receiving treatment, Look Good…Feel Better, a service that helps women suffering from cancer improve their appearance and self-esteem, and Road To Recovery, a transportation system for cancer patients.

For more than 65 years, the American Cancer Society has been working to better the lives of those suffering from cancer. They have made exponential progress and no single non-governmental, non-profit organization has done more for the cause. For that reason, Wakefield is proud to participate and donate to the American Cancer Society through Relay for Life.

“It is important to spread awareness for cancer,” said senior, Taha Mirmozaffari. “Recognizing possible warning signs of cancer and taking prompt action leads to early diagnosis. Increased awareness of possible warning signs of cancer, among physicians, nurses and other health care providers, as well as among the general public, can have a great impact on the disease.”

The Wakefield community has especially been impacted by this tragic disease. Some faculty members have struggled with different types of cancer, so it is crucial that the community bands together to fight cancer.

“We tried to get as many people as possible to participate in the soccer tournament,” said Coach Cynthia Terrell. “For those who are not interested in soccer, there is a Relay for Life race on May 20 from 4:00 p.m. to midnight that serves as a good opportunity to help support the cause as well.”

Wakefield has held basketball tournaments in the past to raise money for cancer research, but this year soccer was the sport of choice. Four teams are a part of the tournament and all of the players seem to be enjoying themselves while supporting the cause.

“This year the participators are all boys,” said Coach Terrell. “They have all been phenomenal and they truly understand the cause.”

The tournament started on January 25, and it has been extended in order to compensate for the snow days.

“Even though we have lost both of our games, it has been a great experience being able to help out the community,” said senior, Sheen Montazeri.

Many of the young men playing in the tournament know exactly what they donated to and are proud to be a part of a growing cause. Fighting cancer is not an easy feat, but supporting the fight can be.

“I like making a positive impact on my school,” said Montazeri. “I am passionate about soccer and it feels good to be involved.”

Participating in the race or the tournament is a great way to support an important cause. Giving donations to the American Cancer Society also provides medical scientists with the means to conduct research for treatment and cures.

“Each year, four million people participate in Relay for Life events. There, they celebrate what they’ve overcome, remember the lives lost to cancer, and raise the funds necessary to fight back,” according to RelayforLife.org.