Presented by American Cancer Society, Relay for Life

Bakersfield’s annual Relay for Life returns this weekend to the Kern County Fairgrounds, bringing the community together for a powerful 24 hours of remembrance, celebration, and support. The event officially kicks off tomorrow at 8:30 a.m. with the Survivor Lap, a moment dedicated to honoring those who have faced cancer and continue to stand strong. Sharing more about this year’s relay is Cherie Shoemake, a cancer survivor, longtime relayer, and dedicated volunteer whose connection to the event spans decades.

For those unfamiliar with Relay for Life, Cherie explained that the event’s origins date back more than 40 years. It began when Dr. Gordy Klatt set out to create an experience that symbolized a day in the life of a cancer patient. He ran for 24 hours to reflect the ongoing, relentless nature of cancer, and that powerful idea eventually partnered with the American Cancer Society to become Relay for Life. The 24‑hour format remains today, serving as a reminder that cancer doesn’t take breaks, and neither does the fight against it.

While the mission is rooted in a serious and deeply emotional cause, Relay for Life is also filled with moments of joy, connection, and encouragement. Cherie shared that the Survivor Lap is one of the most meaningful parts of the event, both personally and for hundreds of others. Survivors are invited to take the first lap together, wearing their purple shirts as a symbol of strength, perseverance, and victory. For Cherie, who has been cancer‑free for more than 32 years, the moment still carries the same excitement and significance it did at her very first relay. She emphasizes that anyone who has ever heard the words “you have cancer” is a survivor, regardless of treatment type or timeline, and deserves to be recognized.

Beyond the Survivor Lap, the event stays active and engaging throughout the entire day and night. Attendees can expect live bands, contests, scavenger hunts, lip‑sync battles, and a wide range of activities designed to keep the energy going. Even overnight hours are filled with connection, including late‑night bingo and movies, ensuring that participants are never alone on the track.

One of the most powerful moments of Relay for Life is the luminaria ceremony. During this time, the track is lined with softly glowing luminaria bags, each representing a loved one affected by cancer. It is a chance to honor survivors while also remembering those who have been lost. Cherie described walking the track during the luminaria ceremony as deeply moving, seeing names illuminated and stories remembered. She also shared that it is not too late to participate by dedicating a luminaria bag. Community members can still purchase one online through the Relay for Life Bakersfield page to honor someone special.

Relay for Life is a free event and open to the entire community. Organizers strongly encourage families to attend, recognizing that cancer impacts not just individuals but entire families and support systems. Whether someone is a survivor, caregiver, family member, or supporter, the event creates space for shared understanding and healing.

Cherie described Relay for Life as a “community support group,” a place where people can connect with others who truly understand what they’ve been through. She encourages those who may have participated years ago to return and see how the event has evolved, and invites first‑time attendees to come with an open heart. Whether arriving with family, friends, or alone, there will always be someone there ready to offer support.

Relay for Life continues to stand as one of Bakersfield’s most meaningful community gatherings, blending fellowship, fun, remembrance, and fundraising into a single, unforgettable experience. As Cherie put it, it’s about coming together, supporting one another, and continuing the fight until a cure is found.

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