With over $18,000 raised, the University Relay For Life executive team sure knows how to walk it out.

“Last year, UGA’s Relay For Life raised over $250,000,” said Kaitlyn Bagnato, a senior public relations major from Leesburg and chairperson of the University’s executive Relay For Life team. “We hope to raise even more this year, and it looks like we have a good chance.”

Relay For Life benefits the American Cancer Society. Money raised goes toward cancer research, education, advocacy and service.

Bagnato started working with Relay For Life after her “second mom” was diagnosed with cancer for the second time a few years ago.

“Now, I work with exec to fundraise, promote and plan Relay,” she said. “It is truly inspiring to see other students dedicate so much time and energy to the cause.”

Relay For Life is open to all who want to help. With about 100 teams at the University, volunteers and donations always are needed and accepted.

Mary Catherine McLean, a junior social science and education major from Moultrie, has been relaying since the sixth grade, after she lost both of her grandmothers to cancer.

“Relay For Life is a fun and moving event that ignites excitement and hope in everyone involved,” she said. “Cancer never rests, and neither will we – not until we’ve found a cure.”

Raising money can be hard, but after gaining $2,550 on her own, McLean offers some good advice.

“Asking people for money is not fun, but when you explain that it’s for a wonderful organization and benefits such a tremendous cause, it’s hard for people to resist,” she said. “I made phone calls, sent e-mails and letters – anything I could do.”

Although the tradition of Relay For Life involves

at least one member from every team never leaving the track once the event has begun, there is more to this chapter.

With guest speakers, a Chick-fil-A eating contest and many contributing bands such as Beyond Tomorrow and Nelo, this all-nighter will not be boring.

Walking for cancer research allows those affected by the heartbreaking disease to give back to their community.

“I want to make a difference because I understand the pain of losing someone you love to this horrendous disease,” said McLean. “I don’t want anyone else to experience that devastating loss. It’s an amazing feeling to know you’re doing something for the greater good.”