Proudly displaying his “Relay for Life” tee shirt, eighth grader Patrick Rollo wants all his fellow Mustangs to participate in their first Relay for Life, an event sponsored by the American Cancer Society that raises funds for cancer research. Patrick became involved with the relay seven years ago when a family friend who had been diagnosed with cancer years ago invited him to participate. His family all joined up and formed a team named “Celebrations!” which participated in the Thomas Jefferson High school relay, which raised nearly $75,000.  

“At relay, everyone honors their lost family members as well as survivors with a luminary ceremony at dusk. The lit candles surround the track, while participants walk and observe silence. However, before this solemn ceremony, everyone can also play football, basketball, soccer, board games and more,” explained Patrick. “Each  year through relay I realize how fortunate I am to have my health, my friends, and my family,” added Patrick.

This year Patrick wants to recruit members from George Mason to participate in the upcoming relay to be held on June 16.  To register a team (15 people), find a team captain and register online by Googling Relay for Life and find ACS: Relay for Life. Scroll down and type in our zip code (22046) and you will see that the George Mason relay is number one. Registraton costs $10 per person. You are also welcome to come to the football field to experience the event for an hour or all night. (Photo by Ted Peetz)