Relay For Life is the main cancer volunteer-driven fundraising event of the American Cancer Society. The objective of the Relay is to raise money for cancer research and cancer patients. This event is held annually to spread cancer awareness, celebrate the lives of survivors, remember those who have lost their lives to cancer and to unite communities in the fight against cancer.

Relay for Life is run by volunteers. Chairpersons oversee “teams” of volunteers who raise money for the American Cancer Society. Funds raised benefit cancer research grants and programs, prevention programs, community/patient support programs, detection and treatment programs, etc.

The success of the counties relay mission depends greatly on participation. To date, teams are desperately needed.

Relay teams, usually from 5-18 individuals, are made up of people from all walks of life, all ages, and all lifestyles.

Teams can be made up of family members, business associates, co- workers, friends, scout troops, clubs and organizations . . . high school sports groups or clubs, church groups, sewing circles, coffee clubs . . . any group of people willing to help fight cancer by participating in this worthy cause.

Each team attends their local all night Relay event of the year, which is held at a local park, track, or trail. Individuals walk or run around a track or path throughout the night, to remind one and all, that cancer never sleeps.

Groups or individuals are not required to walk a certain distance or amount of laps, they are merely asked to participate in the event.

Teams can also set up tables in small areas at the main event to raise extra funds for the Relay.

The 2011 Relay For Life of Tyler County will be held on June 3 from 6 p.m. until 6 a.m. at the Sistersville City Park with the theme “Happily Ever After: Where the Fairy Tale of a Cure Comes True.”

Your participation in and support for this worthwhile cause is greatly encouraged.