The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: Relay for Life is an overnight party devoted to recognize people that survived cancer, those who have already died, raise funds for Cancer Control and Research and to have fun. During this, tobacco and alcohol free event, messages related to cancer prevention are delivered.

Methods: The first Relays for Life were organized in Argentina by AAPEC in Bahia Blanca city in the South of Buenos Aires Province during 2003 and 2004. The organizing committee had been working on this event for more than one year and two persons have attended an Special Training organized by the American Cancer Society in Puerto Rico in April 2002. We had been advised by the American Cancer Society's staff and leaders on the opportunity that it represents for mobilizing the community and raising funds.

Results: A Specific Organizing Committee was created and new volunteers were incorporated to fit the new needs. We were compelled to reach survivors obtaining the participation of 100. We had 13 teams and about 300 participants. The events had wide media coverage and the beginning of the survivors' round was seen in the main TV news programs the day after. 2003 and 2004 Relay for Life were big experiences for our organization. The most important thing is that people are beginning to understand the "essence" of this kind of party and the people from the community want to participate and have an important role in the fight against cancer.