Event celebrates survivors, honors caregivers, and raises funds for the American Cancer Society
Relay for Life is returning to Habersham County this fall, bringing a full day of support, remembrance, and celebration to Demorest Spring Park on November 15th. The event will run from 10 a.m. to approximately 6 p.m., offering activities that raise money for the American Cancer Society while honoring those affected by cancer.
For local organizer Teresa Mans, the mission is deeply personal.
“I’m a breast cancer survivor,” she said. “Relay for Life helped me when I was going through treatment, and I wanted to bring it back so people understand what it really does for cancer patients.”
Relay for Life has existed nationally for 40 years, but Habersham’s local event stopped during COVID and remained inactive for four years. Mans first joined the effort in 2019 after her diagnosis, starting her own team during treatment. Determined to revive awareness and support, she worked to relaunch the event — making this year the third year since Relay for Life returned to Habersham County.
Full Day of Activities
The November 15th event will feature:
- Vendors throughout the day
- A cakewalk and silent auction
- Survivors Walk at 11:30 a.m., honoring survivors, caregivers, and loved ones lost to cancer
- Survivor’s Lunch at 12:00 p.m. for registered survivors
“The event is to celebrate survivors and their caregivers,” Mans said. “It’s not just about walking around a track — it’s about raising money and awareness.”
Vendor Opportunities Still Available
Vendor spaces are still open.
The cost is $50 per vendor, with all proceeds going directly to Relay for Life.
Because the event is held in the park, there is ample space for additional participants.
Why Relay Matters
Mans says many people don’t realize how much the American Cancer Society provides to patients — and how much Relay for Life helps keep those services available.
She credits ACS with helping her personally during her own cancer battle:
- Providing a real-hair wig after she went bald from chemotherapy
- Supplying a prosthetic and specialized bras following her mastectomy
- Offering gas cards for the many trips to and from treatment
- Assisting with transportation for patients who have no way to travel
- Ensuring lodging for patients who must stay near treatment facilities, including those in Atlanta
“Relay for Life helped me,” she said. “And it helps so many others. That’s why I want people to know what it really stands for.”
Mans is currently in remission and will celebrate six years cancer-free on February 28, 2026.
A Community Invitation
Mans hopes the November 15th event will draw a strong crowd — not only to raise funds, but to spread understanding.
“My main goal is awareness,” she said. “Relay for Life is about supporting people with cancer and their caregivers. I want people to know how much it truly does.”
The event is open to the public, and everyone is welcome to attend, walk, support, and participate.
