Overview
Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon from Tacoma, Washington, is renowned for founding the Relay For Life, a 24-hour relay event that has become a cornerstone of cancer research fundraising worldwide. In 1985, Klatt embarked on a solo 24-hour run around the track at the University of Puget Sound, raising $27,000 for the American Cancer Society. This pioneering effort sparked a global movement, with the first team-based Relay For Life event taking place in 1986. Today, the Relay For Life has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon, with over 5 million participants in more than 20 countries, generating over $5 billion for cancer research. Klatt's innovative approach to fundraising has inspired countless individuals and organizations, cementing his legacy as a visionary in the fight against cancer. As the Relay For Life continues to grow and expand, it's clear that Dr. Klatt's impact will be felt for generations to come, with the event's cultural resonance and emotional weight only continuing to intensify.
Key Facts
- Year
- 1985
- Origin
- Tacoma, Washington, USA
- Category
- Biography, Medicine, Philanthropy
- Type
- Person