Relay for Life kickoff

Sussex County community members will unite Feb. 3 at an overnight rally to officially launch their Annual Relay For Life season. Dozens of families, caregivers, cancer survivors, schools, local organizations and individuals are expected to attend the rally designed to educate others about how getting involved benefits the American Cancer Society’s goals. Money raised will fight cancer by finding cures and help people to get well. What's happening The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is an overnight community celebration where individuals and teams camp out, picnic, dance, play games and take turns circling around a track “relay” style to raise funds and fight cancer. The event opens as cancer survivors lead the way around the track and are honored with the Survivor Lap. As the sun begins to set, the warm glow of hundreds of luminaria light the field in a silent ceremony. Each bag lit is in honor of a loved one who won the fight against cancer or in remembrance of someone who lost their battle. The American Cancer Society Relay For Life represents hope in that those lost to cancer will not be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day, cancer will be eliminated. Started in 1985, Relay For Life began with one man who circled around a track for 24 hours raising $27,000. This year, Relay For Life has grown to more than 5,000 communities and over 25 countries worldwide. The Sussex County event starts at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 3, at Sussex County Community College, One College Hill Road, in Newton. To join Relay For Life call 1-800-227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org/relay or contact Jennifer Romer at 973.285.8010 or jennifer.romer@cancer.org.