At Newport News Shipbuilding, it can be a challenge to reach all employees when the Relay For Life campaign begins. Corporate Citizenship relies on passionate employees to create teams, sell T-shirts, raise donations and spread the word.

NNS is a Relay For Life sponsor, joining forces with the American Cancer Society to help fight for a world without cancer. Last weekend, shipbuilders came together for the annual Relay For Life fundraiser at Todd Stadium in Newport News.

Each person helps for their own reason, but one NNS employee, Elsie Bledsoe (X32), has consistently supported the fight against cancer and encourages her co-workers to join her efforts. Her motivation is personal.

“I lost my daughter to brain cancer in 2018 when she was only 20,” Bledsoe said. “Her spirit inspires me to support the Relay For Life each year.”

Elsie created the team “Angels Among Us” in memory of her daughter, raising over $1,900 for the American Cancer Society. She attributes her success to the generosity of her work family, shipyard friends and family.

“All the donations, T-shirt purchases, support and especially the love received for the fight against cancer is very much appreciated,” she said. “And I thank everyone who rallies with me each year.”