'Cancer never sleeps'

Editor’s Note: This continues our Celebrate Community series on nonprofit organizations that improve residents’ quality of life.

CRESTVIEW — A new fundraising season is underway for the Crestview chapter of Relay for Life, this year aiming to bring in $90,000 in donations.

Relay for Life is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, which has been in existence since 1985. The event — in over 20 countries — consists of teams that take turns walking around a set course over six to 24 hours.

The Crestview event will take place at Crestview High School and last 12 hours. This will be the event’s second year at CHS. During the time, each team must have at least one member on the track. Their walk symbolizes that “cancer never sleeps” and patients “don’t stop because they’re tired,” according to the group’s website.

Before the main event, teams work to raise individual donations. Proceeds benefit cancer research, patient care, education, prevention services and other ACS needs.

The main event is run during the night, from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. One of the highlights of the night event is the luminaria display, during which small, white bags are decorated in memory or support for somebody affected by cancer. Candles are placed in the bags and they are lit in remembrance of those individuals.

Crestview’s event isn’t until April 28, but those looking to get involved don’t have to wait until the day of the relay. Opportunities are available to join or start relay teams, dedicate a luminaria, donate to the cause or attend an area fundraising event.

The next fundraiser for Crestview will be held 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Feb. 10 at Speedee Printing. The company is hosting a $5 cookout in which all proceeds will be donated to Relay. Attendees will also receive a coupon for Lou Lou Beans Gift Shop.

Currently, 22 teams are registered with the Crestview chapter, composed of 92 people. Over $6,000 had been raised as of this writing.

ACS reportedly held over 5,200 Relay For Life events in 2015. The event raised $150 million for cancer research grants, provided over 300,000 rides to and from treatment and assisted over 1 million requests for information and help, according to the organization’s website.

Volunteers can learn more about the Crestview event at www.relay.acsevents.org or email Christie Reid at christie.reid@cancer.org.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: 'Cancer never sleeps'