It was May 1985 when Tacoma-based colorectal surgeon, Dr. Gordy Klatt made a commitment to journey around the track of Baker Stadium at the University of Puget Sound for 24 hours to raise money for the American Cancer Society. As Klatt made his way around the track, he was met with encouragement from patients, friends and family and at the end, Klatt emerged victorious tallying over 83 miles and amassing $27,000 for the cause. This was the beginning of Relay for Life.
Relay for Life of Thurston County Named As a National Top 10 Relay Fundraising Event for 2024
Klatt’s landmark run set into motion Relay for Life, which has spanned countless participants across the decades who have all rallied to further the American Cancer Society’s vital work in supporting research, access and programming for cancer survivors. Each Relay is a time of celebration and contemplation, holding space to recognize cancer survivors and caregivers, while also paying tribute to those who have passed away from cancer. And in 2025, Relay for Life holds additional significance as organizers, volunteers and participants commemorate 40 years of advancements made in cancer screening, treatment and support services, while also recognizing the work that still needs to be done.
Relay for Life of Thurston County presented by TwinStar Credit Union returns to North Thurston High School on June 21-22, 2025. This year’s theme for Relay for Life of Thurston County presented by TwinStar Credit Union is “Relay like it’s 1985,” and the event will feature a jam-packed lineup throughout the day, including themed laps, on-field activities, food trucks and a car show. Later in the evening, attendees can take part in the Luminaria Ceremony and Bagpiper Lap. Paper lantern Luminaria will also be placed along the track, decorated by volunteers in honor of friends, family and loved ones who have been affected by cancer.
For 2024, Relay for Life of Thurston County ranked fifth in the United States in terms of Relay fundraising events, fielding 86 fundraising teams and raising the total amount of $479,742. In 2025, Relay for Life of Thurston County presented by TwinStar Credit Union plans to reach new heights. So far, Relay for Life of Thurston County has raised over $300,000 toward their 2025 fundraising goal of $500,000 through the work of 88 fundraising teams, local sponsors, community donations and fundraising events.
Relay for Life 40th Anniversary Commemorates Progress Made in the Fight Against Cancer
The landscape of cancer prevention, detection and treatment has changed significantly since the 1980s and Relay for Life’s influence has continued to grow. Through Global Relay for Life, recognition and advocacy for cancer survivors and caregivers extends internationally, with Relay partners found across six continents and over 30 countries.
According to the American Cancer Society, the organization’s work and research has aided in the prevention of over four million cancer-related deaths, as well as a reduction in the United States cancer death rate by 33% since 1991. In Washington State, the American Cancer Society’s impact includes the Road to Recovery program to help cancer patients get free transportation to and from cancer-related medical visits, as well as advocacy and connecting patients with local resources. The American Cancer Society is also helping to fund over $10 million in grants for cancer research and training in Washington State, and more than $500 million on a national scale.
Gayle Lieberman Has Been a Part of Relay for Life for Almost Four Decades
Gayle Lieberman has participated in Relay for Life since 1988, and after almost four decades, the memories of Lieberman’s first Relay have left a lasting impression. After being diagnosed with cancer in 1987, Relay for Life was a space for Lieberman to commemorate her own cancer journey, as well as walk in honor of a work colleague who had been diagnosed with cancer. Ahead of the 1988 Relay, Lieberman had formed a fundraising team with a handful of fellow co-workers called “Ten Women,” and out of dozens of teams that participated that year, “Ten Women” would place third in terms of fundraising.
At the 1988 Relay, Lieberman recalls multiple heartfelt moments, including a ceremonial lap that was led by cancer survivors. As Lieberman made her way around the track, there was applause and encouragement flowing from Relay attendees.
Over the years, Lieberman continued to be a part of Relay and raise money for the American Cancer Society as a gesture of gratitude for those who had supported her during her cancer journey. Reflecting on how Relay has changed over time, Lieberman remembers early days of fundraising team and Relay preparations, primarily coordinated over the phone. And as email, cell phones and the internet grew in popularity, the channels of communication shifted significantly, which opened the door for Relay to expand and reach more people.
And since 2011, Gayle Lieberman and her husband Steve Lieberman, who is also a long time Relay participant, have led a fundraising team called “Pay It Forward.” The Liebermans are also leaders of the greeting committee. Adorned in black and white “referee” shirts, the greeting team is composed of friendly faces who can be found near Relay’s front gates, welcoming attendees, answering questions and helping direct attendees to different areas of the event.
According to Gayle Lieberman, Relay for Life tends to be an event where participants return year after year because of the event’s hopeful nature and sense of community that is created through supporting the cause. And there are many ways to get involved with Relay for Life that can accommodate a volunteer’s unique skill set and interests.
Fundraising teams and dedicated community members host a range of fundraising events, with a schedule available on the Relay for Life of Thurston County website. Community members can also sign up to be part of the volunteer team for Relay for Life of Thurston County, helping to set up the event and ensure it runs efficiently.
To learn more about upcoming fundraising events and how to get involved with Relay for Life of Thurston County presented by TwinStar Credit Union, visit the Relay for Life of Thurston County presented by TwinStar Credit Union website.
