On September 19, 2002, the American Cancer Society held its Relay For Life Celebration on the Hill on the National Mall in Washington, DC, to honor the volunteers and cancer survivors who are at the forefront in the struggle to eradicate cancer.

Thousands of people gathered around the reflecting pool in front of the US Capitol in a day-long event to remember loved ones lost and celebrate those who fight on. It was also designed to serve as a call-to-action for our nation’s elected officials. The American Cancer Society wants their full attention and support in making progress against cancer. Volunteers representing cities and town nationwide met with their elected officials to bring the word that cancer is a community issue, and one that touches everyone.

It was a memorable and moving event.