MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS News) - Murfreesboro residents are invited to lace up their walking shoes and join a global moment of hope as the American Cancer Society hosts its annual Relay First Lap, the official kickoff to the 2026 Relay For Life of Murfreesboro season. The event brings together Relayers around the world who take their first symbolic lap of the year at the same time, united in purpose and determination to end cancer as we know it.

Locally, the gathering will take place Saturday, January 10 at Oaklands Mansion, 900 N. Maney Avenue. Participants will meet at the teardrop driveway at 12:30 p.m. before stepping off together. The event is open to anyone who wants to walk, remember, honor, or simply stand alongside neighbors touched by cancer.

Luminaria will be available for purchase on‑site for $5 each, with every dollar benefiting the American Cancer Society. Each luminaria honors or remembers someone impacted by cancer, and when purchased, the honoree’s photo will be included in the luminaria ceremony slideshow later in the season. Light refreshments will be offered as the community gathers for this first meaningful step.

Organizers are encouraging all Relay teams, team captains, survivors, caregivers, and anyone curious about getting involved to attend. Relay First Lap serves as the early spark leading into the main Relay For Life of Murfreesboro event, scheduled for June 12, 2026, from 5 to 9 p.m., also at Oaklands Mansion. Funds raised support cancer research, patient services, advocacy, and education programs that directly impact families across Rutherford County.

The planning committee is currently seeking teams, team captains, vendors, food trucks, sponsors, and individual donors. Vendor spaces begin at $40, with food truck participation set at $60. Organizers emphasize that no donation is too small; every contribution helps fuel lifesaving work.

This year’s Relay effort is being led by Denise Bond, a devoted community member who continues to organize the event while bravely fighting her own battle with cancer — a powerful reminder of why Relay matters so deeply.

For details, donations, or to get involved, contact Denise by email at dbond1109@gmail.com or phone her at 629‑201‑3531. You can also visit their website: RelayForLife.org/MurfreesboroTN.

Together, one step and one lap at a time, Murfreesboro can make a lasting difference