Robinson High School hosted its third annual Relay for Life event on Friday, April 28. The event started at 6 p.m. and lasted the entire night, during which the students and sponsors camped out on the football field. Clubs, organizations and individuals from all over Tampa gathered, sharing one common goal: to raise awareness for cancer.

“The hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported and that one day, cancer will be eliminated,” Relay for Life said in their mission statement.

The night started off with everyone walking around the track and visiting different stations where individuals could buy snacks and drinks and make donations to various organizations. Robinson’s Tri-M Honor Society had its own station set up where they sold popcorn.

“Tri-M’s ultimate goal was to benefit our community by raising money for Relay for Life while having a good time selling popcorn. It’s a great way for us to connect as a group as well as serve the area around us,” Tri-M member Julia Barrett (’24) said.

A few speeches were then given by Plant High School cancer survivor Jayden Spencer (’24) and his mom about their experience with being diagnosed and all the support they’ve received. Spencer’s speech touched the hearts of many listeners in the audience as he put his story into perspective.

After the speeches, everyone played games on the field such as football, tug of war and tag. Students were able to tire themselves out before settling into their tents for the night.

Closing speeches were given by student Event Head Abbi Fishman (’23) and volunteers with the American Cancer Society. A video was played to dedicate to those who were lost to cancer and those who survived.

“The speakers and videos really drive home the reason we are there; they were powerful and impactful,” Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) President Ami Marie-Welch said.

PTSA also had a major part in making this event possible. Students and parent volunteers manned booths and sold hot dogs and drinks as well. Robinson’s football team assisted in setup too. All of the booths, tents and tables wouldn’t have been up in time if it wasn’t for the student volunteers, who were thankful for the opportunity to pitch in.

“It was so much fun and I hope our help contributed to cancer research in the bigger picture,” Robinson football player Xander Logan (’25) said.

PTSA hopes to host the event in the future years and continue contributing to the cause.

“It gives us all an opportunity to give back and celebrate those we have lost to cancer, those that are fighting cancer and celebrate those who have survived it,”  Welch said.