During the event, teams of people gather at schools, fairgrounds, or parks and take turns walking or running laps. But Relay For Life is much more than a walk around a track: it is a time to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost to cancer, and get inspired to fight back against the disease.

The celebration aspect of Relay For Life kicks off with the Survivors Lap. Seeing the strength of survivors walking this opening lap inspires others to continue to fight. The Ceremony of Hope gives participants the opportunity to remember loved ones lost to cancer and honor cancer survivors. Luminaria candles are lit and left burning throughout the night to remind participants of the incredible importance of their contributions.

Beginning in 2008, Relay events across the country will introduce their Relay communities to a new, powerful ceremony that will inspire and symbolize the emotional commitment made to the fight against cancer: the Fight Back Ceremony.

The fight against cancer is one that lasts year round. The Fight Back Ceremony is designed to motivate and inspire Relay communities to fight back for themselves, their loved ones, and their community against a disease that has already taken too much.

Each Relay For Life event will feature a Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back. banner for participants to sign, demonstrating their commitment to take action and save one life this year. Encouraging a loved one to get their cancer screenings, supporting advocacy efforts to increase access to care, and participating in a research study are all ways you can make a difference and fight back against cancer.

The virtual home of Relay For Life, www.RelayForLife.org, is an interactive web site that offers support and resources to Relay For Life participants across the nation. The site is also a great source of inspiration for ways to celebrate, remember, and fight back against cancer throughout the year.

You have the power to continue the American Cancer Society's progress towards a future where cancer doesn't take the lives of our friends and family. To find out how you can join the fight against cancer, call your American Cancer Society toll-free at 1-800-ACS-2345.