Second Glances with Arabella

Since its inception in 2005, Relay For Life of Second Life (RFL of SL) has grown into one of the most remarkable digital fundraising movements in the world. A virtual adaptation of the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) signature fundraising event, Relay For Life in Second Life harnesses the creativity, compassion, and connectivity of a global virtual community to raise awareness and funds for cancer research and support services. In doing so, it has redefined what it means to come together for a cause—proving that even in a fully digital world, humanity thrives.

Origins and Growth

Relay For Life was started in the physical world in 1985 by Dr. Gordy Klatt, who walked and ran for 24 hours around a track in Tacoma, Washington, raising $27,000 for the American Cancer Society. In the decades since, the event has become a global movement. Its entry into Second Life, the online virtual world created by Linden Lab, marked a pioneering moment in digital philanthropy.

In 2005, the very first Relay For Life in Second Life raised over $5,000 USD. What began as a small experiment has grown exponentially. As of 2025, RFL of SL has raised more than $6 million USD (converted from Linden Dollars) for the American Cancer Society—placing it among the top Relay For Life teams in the world. Each year, thousands of avatars participate, with many more contributing in various ways—hosting events, building immersive experiences, or donating through in-world vendors and kiosks.

How It Works in a Virtual World

Relay For Life in Second Life closely mirrors the spirit of its physical-world counterpart but adds a creative twist only possible in virtual environments. The central event is a 24-hour relay held in June, where teams of avatars walk or run laps around a multi-region track, elaborately decorated with themed builds by different teams. Each lap represents a united front in the fight against cancer—a communal act of remembrance, hope, and celebration.

Leading up to the main event, the RFL of SL season spans several months, filled with themed fundraising events: art auctions, fashion shows, dance parties, concerts, roleplay games, and memorial gatherings. Teams often organize “FUNdraisers” like jail-and-bail events, gachas, breedable pet auctions, and scavenger hunts. Many virtual businesses and artists in Second Life dedicate portions of their sales to the cause, further blending charity with community creativity.

What makes RFL of SL unique is its ability to transcend physical limitations. People from across the globe—many of whom may be homebound or physically disabled—can contribute, collaborate, and participate fully. Survivors, caregivers, friends, and supporters can meet in safe, inclusive spaces to share stories, honor loved ones, and express solidarity in a way that’s both personal and profound.

Community and Connection

One of the most moving aspects of RFL of SL is its ability to create an enduring sense of community. The Survivor and Caregiver Honor Lap is a deeply emotional moment, as avatars take to the track amid cheers and virtual fireworks. Memorial areas throughout the regions give participants a space to honor those who have passed, often adorned with candles, photos, and personal messages. Luminary bags light the sides of the track, each with a personal message of honor or remembrance for those who fight the battle or who have lost the battle against cancer.

For many, Relay For Life in Second Life is more than just an event—it’s a lifeline. Virtual support groups form lasting bonds. Artists donate their work. Builders contribute awe-inspiring creations. Scriptwriters and scripters lend their time and talent to make the events magical. Volunteers dedicate hundreds of hours to coordination, logistics, and leadership. All of it happens in a spirit of unity against a disease that touches everyone in some way.

The organizing structure is made up of teams, captains, and an event leadership committee that includes survivors, caregivers, American Cancer Society liaisons, and seasoned virtual world veterans. Their combined efforts turn a vast, decentralized virtual world into a highly organized fundraising engine.

More Than Just Fundraising

While raising money is a central mission, RFL of SL also excels in education and outreach. Virtual exhibits share real-world cancer information, resources for prevention and early detection, and support for patients and families. The ACS Island in Second Life provides 24/7 access to educational materials, survivor networks, and even live support through volunteer mentors and staff.

Relay For Life in Second Life also supports global awareness initiatives, celebrating international participation and promoting health equity. It fosters inclusion, offering a platform for marginalized voices to speak out and participate meaningfully.

Looking Ahead

With Second Life now into its third decade, Relay For Life within it remains not just relevant but thriving. With each passing year, new generations of residents join the movement, bringing fresh energy and innovation. In-world technologies such as mesh modeling, live streaming, and more continue to expand what’s possible in event planning and storytelling.

Above all, Relay For Life of Second Life stands as a testament to what a determined and compassionate virtual community can achieve. In a world where the lines between digital and physical continue to blur, RFL of SL reminds us that empathy, hope, and action know no boundaries.

I’ve been a part of our own community’s Relay team, Scotland for Life, for a number of years now, but some of our team members go back as many as 18 SL Relay for Life events; some members of other teams go all the way back to the beginning. Their stories are inspiring and their many reasons for participating in this cherished annual event know no limits. One thing they all have in common is the sense of purpose, driving them to that track year after year, fighting lag and crashes, but most of all keeping their sense of humor and cooperation alive and well.

Whether you log in as a survivor, a caregiver, a friend, or a first-time participant, Relay For Life of Second Life welcomes you—not just to walk the track, but to walk with purpose. Relay as an individual, join a team, volunteer to help, the choice is up to you…but remember, we Relay for everyone-those whose voices have been silenced and those who continue to fight on every single day.

Relay for Life in Second Life begins on Saturday, June 7th at 10:00 AM Second Life Time (Pacific) and runs for 24 hours of themed laps and ceremonies. Come out and support our team or any team of your choosing…or support them all! See you on the track!

~ Arabella

Below: Me with Lumi on the Relay Track