By: Molly Gase
This is not a prediction of the apocalypse, but instead a Relay For Life fundraising event. The event, called “Undead For Life – An Oxymoron for a Cure” is a twist on the traditional walk for a cure fundraiser.
Hosted by Akron CARES, the walk stemmed from member Miranda Burbridge. Burbridge is the co-chair for The University of Akron’s Relay For Life.
“The idea for the event was born when, after witnessing the end of a zombie walk, I wanted to have my own,” Burbridge said. The idea expanded when Burbridge spoke about the walk to one of her co-workers. “He thought it was funny that the undead were fundraising for life,” Burbridge said.
The event does not just allow participants to walk (or limp) the streets as the undead, but also raises funds while raising awareness.
“To participate in the event, we are asking all zombies to make either a monetary or canned good donation…the canned goods will go to Cleveland Hope Lodge.” Burbridge said. Hope Lodge is a program sponsored by the American Cancer Society that provides a place for both cancer patients and their caregivers to stay while fighting the disease. The local safe-haven provides lodging for those who have to travel to receive treatment. The program is meant to ease the financial burden on those fighting cancer, Burbridge explained.
The monetary donations can be either an alternative to the canned good or can accompany it. Any donations received during the event will go toward funding The University of Akron’s Relay For Life event that occurs during the spring semester.
Registration for the event will begin at 7 p.m. Monday in the Student Union Theater. The walk will officially begin at 7:30 p.m. and will conclude at 8:30 p.m. Immediately after the walk, the movie “Zombieland” will be shown in the Student Union Theater.
Burbridge expressed great excitement at the combination of Relay For Life and zombies.
“Since it is also taking place on Halloween, I think it will be a great way to celebrate the holiday while also doing some good,” Burbridge said.