There will be fun and festivities on April 17-18 as Upshur County walkers go around the clock in the battle against cancer during the American Cancer Society Relay For Life. This celebration of life brings numerous groups and individuals concerned about cancer together for an unified effort to fight back.

Teams of enthusiastic citizens will gather at Gilmer High School Stadium for an overnight relay against cancer from 6 p.m. on April 17 until 6 a.m. on April 18.

Relay for Life is a unique fundraising event that allows participants from all walks of life — including patients, medical staff, corporations, civic organizations, churches and community volunteers — to join together to fight cancer.

The event reminds us that progress had been made in the fight against cancer and that everyone who participates is making a difference.

Relay for Life opens as cancer survivors (anyone who has even been diagnosed with cancer) walk or wheelchair the first lap. This is an emotional time and sets the stage for the importance of each participant’s contribution.

All area cancer survivors are invited to participate in this activity. For information on how you can join the survivor’s lap, contact Carla Phillips at 903-738-4222 or email caray@etex.net.

A festive atmosphere always develops around the track area at this event. As you make new friends and spend time with old tones, the Relay heats up and the camp-out begins. An atmosphere of camaraderie is created with team members entertaining each other; eating, playing games, and, of course, walking for a great cause.

Highlighting the evening is the Luminaria Ceremony held after dark to honor cancer survivors and to remember those who have lost the battle against cancer. The luminaria line the track and are left burning throughout the night to remind participants of the incredible importance of their contributions. Luminaria in honor of or in memory of a loved one may be purchased for a donation of $5.

These are available before the event at the First Methodist Church in Gilmer. Luminaria may also be purchased until 8:15 at the Relay.

This year’s Upshur County Relay for Life will also feature an ACS Days. There will be American Cancer Society staff on hand from 6 until 9 p.m. to speak directly with cancer patients about the programs and services available in Upshur County.

“Relay for Life is an much an awareness raiser about the progress against cancer as it is a fund raiser,” said Lakin Jones event chair. “Many of the participants will be people who have dealt with cancer themselves. Their involvement is proof of the progress that had been made in reducing cancer death rates and in the quality of life following cancer treatment.

“The funds raised will enable us to continue our investment in the fight against cancer through educational programs, research and services to patients,” said Jones. “The money raised by participants goes directly to the American Cancer Society’s lifesaving programs.”

Information about how to form a team or become involved in Relay for Life is available by calling 903-738-4222 or visit www.RelayForLife.org/upshurcotx.