This weekend, hundreds of people showed support for local cancer survivors in a myriad of ways at the annual Relay for Life.

Similar to countless other relay events hosted throughout the country, several Niles-Buchanan Relay for Life teams worked year-round to raise funds that benefit the American Cancer Society. Teams hosted fundraisers throughout the year as well as at the event and invited others to come out and support the cause.

For 12 hours, someone from each team walked the track. Other visitors were able to shop at rummage sales, eat goodies, play games and bond with others in the community through fundraisers hosted by various teams.

Nearly everyone knows someone who has been impacted by cancer, and although the topic is certainly a somber one, events like Relay for Life help bring the community together to show support for those fighting the disease.

Of course, the American Cancer Society and the people who support it would love to see the day when a cure is found and the event no longer needs to be hosted.

However, as long as people are still facing battles with cancer, we appreciate that there is a local event that not only raises money to help fund research, but also shows cancer patients that they have the support of the community behind them.

While the fundraising component of Relay for Life is certainly an important one, perhaps the more important — and definitely more motivating — element is the camaraderie and fellowship at the event that reminds those fighting cancer or who have won their battle that their community is behind them and will do whatever it can to help.

 

Opinions expressed are those of the editorial board consisting of Publisher Michael Caldwell and editors Ambrosia Neldon, Craig Haupert, Ted Yoakum and Scott Novak.