Relay for Life

Relay for Life, a national campaign that raises money for research, treatment and recovery for cancer patients, will hold its annual walk tonight in Arena Park.

Festivities kick off at 5:50 p.m., with a survivor dinner set for 6:30 and luminaria ceremony at 9:30. The walk concludes at 3 a.m. Saturday.

Kelli Schenimann, community manager of development for the American Cancer Society Eastern Missouri Region, told the Southeast Missourian that volunteers trace the event to 1996. Several sites in the county have been used to host it.

As of noon Thursday, 46 teams and 513 participants have raised $126,502.94.

Schenimann said cancer survivors wanting to walk can register at the event. Others are asked to sign up online at relayforlife.org/capemo.

In addition to the walk, there are other opportunities to participate. There will be a hot-air ballon that will glow, a survivors' lap, live band, games, vendor booths and hayrides.

Cancer affects many people, and events like Relay for Life are good opportunities to raise money for research and help those receiving treatment.

We hope you consider stopping by and enjoy a fun night for a great cause.