Franklin County Relay For Life Marks 30 Years of Hope

Every June in Greenfield, Massachusetts, grief and hope walk side by side at the Franklin County Fairgrounds, where strangers become family united by a single mission.

Relay For Life of Franklin County celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, bringing together cancer survivors, their families, and supporters for a day that organizers describe as equal parts celebration and healing. The event takes place Saturday, June 13, continuing a tradition that has touched countless lives across three decades.

"It's kind of like a family reunion once a year," said Bethany Demers, one of three event chairs. "We're all just Relay family at this point."

The day begins at 10 a.m. with a survivor's lap, honoring anyone who has heard the words "You have cancer," whether yesterday or years ago. Throughout the event, participants enjoy themed laps, children's activities, and raffles, creating an atmosphere where joy and remembrance coexist naturally.

But the most powerful moment comes during the luminaria ceremony, when decorated paper bags honoring survivors and remembering those who have died glow in quiet reflection. "Having everyone together and looking at the bags around us, and knowing those people and remembering those people, was so emotional," Demers recalled.

For many participants, Relay offers something deeper than fundraising. Chris Luippold became involved after encouragement from his friend Matt Hall, who died of cancer in 2020. "It's the one day a year that I know I'm going to cry for quite a few hours," Luippold admitted. "It's almost therapeutic."

Why This Inspires

The money raised provides real, practical help through American Cancer Society programs. Hope Lodge offers free lodging for patients traveling for treatment, while Road To Recovery connects volunteers with patients who need transportation to medical appointments.

This year's goal is $100,000, with participants already raising over $46,000. But co-chair Melanie Johnson emphasizes that success means more than dollars. "We really bring the joy with the spirit of Relay," she said. "Then we make sure we hold space with our luminaria ceremony and allow people time to reflect and remember."

The organizers now face the challenge of encouraging younger generations to carry the tradition forward as longtime participants age. "We're trying everything we can as the leadership team to build up that interest and bring the next generation into it as well," Luippold said.

For anyone who has never attended, the invitation remains simple. "Participating is as easy as coming up and joining us on Saturday, taking a walk around and checking it out," Demers noted.

After 30 years, the Franklin County Relay family keeps growing, one lap at a time.