The annual Relay for Life took place April 15 from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. at the John L. Guidry Stadium.Relay for Life is held to raise money for the American Cancer Society and cancer research. This year more than $184,000 was raised for the cause.

“It’s a great organization to support. My aunt died from breast cancer, so anything I could do to support I would,” Josh Varnado, English sophomore from Paradis, said.

Many people participate in the relay in remembrance of a loved one or for themselves as a survivor of cancer. There were a total of 84 teams, and more than 6,000 people went to the event. Everyone in the community and surrounding communities were able to participate.

“We were all there to support cancer survivors and to remember cancer victims,” Sara Shields, activities chairperson and biology junior from Thibodaux, said.

This relay is made up of numerous teams. Many of the teams had from 10 to 15 people participating. These teams sold food or raffle tickets in order to raise money for the cause. Some teams that participated were the Pre-Med Association (PMA), St. Thomas Catholic Daughters, culinary and nursing. Many members of the faculty and the maintenance crews participated as well.

“The Krewe of Ambrosia raised over $11,000 by themselves,” Shields said.

All during the night, teams participated in numerous events. For participating in an event each team would receive one point; however, if the team won it would receive five points.

“This year Thibodaux Regional won the spirit award for participating in various events,” Shields said.

One event that took place this year was called the Womanless Beauty Pageant. In this pageant men would dress in drag and participate in beauty pageant activities, such as a talent competition. One Nicholls student who participated was Joseph Rouchon, culinary senior from Clinton.

“I thought the pageant would be something fun to do, and it was all for a good cause,” Rouchon said.