Relay for Life is set for April 28-29

To the editor:

Anyone who has spent a night participating in an American Cancer Society Relay for Life knows how tiring -- and fulfilling -- the event can be. This year's event is just around the corner, April 28-29, at Cape County Park North.

Events begin at 6 a.m. with a survivors lap in which hundreds of cancer survivors will take a victory lap. The involvement of cancer survivors is proof of the progress that has been made in improving cancer survival rates. Come out and support our local cancer survivors and let them know they are the reason we relay.

Groups also camp out near the walking area and spend the hours selling food, playing carnival games, celebrating cancer survivors and taking turns walking. The ceremonies grow subdued around 9 p.m. with the lighting of luminaria candles, which honor cancer survivors and remember those who have lost the fight against the disease.

If we are not individually diagnosed with cancer, we all can name someone we know who has fought the battle. It affects everyone. Come make a difference in the fight against cancer. Come take a chance and take a stand. Join us at the Relay for Life on April 28-29. For more information, call 334-9197.

JoBETH SCHERER, Community Specialist,

American Cancer Society, Cape Girardeau