The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Plymouth County is just around the corner. There's still time to register a team for the June event by calling June Muth, team recruitment chair, at 712-533-6286. This "celebration of life" brings the Plymouth community together in a unified effort to fight cancer.

A Team Captain Kickoff will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday May 2, at the Floyd Valley Hospital lower level Conference Center. Team captains will be able to pick up packets for team members and get fundraising ideas for their team. Committee members will be on hand to share the experience of Relay For Life and to answer questions.

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Former and current cancer patients, their families, businesses, civic organizations, and the public are invited to take part in this exciting team event. The 12th annual Relay For Life of Plymouth County begins with its opening ceremony at 6 p.m. Friday, June 6, at the Le Mars Community High School Jim Lorenzen Field and closes at 7 a.m. Saturday morning, June 7.

Relay For Life, the American Cancer Society's signature event, is a life-changing experience that helps everyone celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost and to fight back against a disease that takes too much. This unforgettable event raises awareness and funds to save lives, help those touched by cancer, and empower people to fight back against this disease. With the money raised at Relay, your American Cancer Society is working toward an important goal -- a future without cancer.

Relay For Life is a family-oriented event, and participants can enjoy the camaraderie of a team and also raise funds to support the activities of the American Cancer Society. Participants camp out at the Relay site, and when they are not taking their turn walking, they take part in fun activities and enjoy local entertainment.

Teams from companies, churches, organizations, hospitals, and schools collect donations and can win individual and team prizes for their efforts.

"Relay For Life brings the progress against cancer to the forefront," said Melinda Schwartz, committee member. "Many participants are our family, friends, and neighbors who have dealt with cancer themselves. Their involvement is proof of the progress that has been not only reducing death rates, but also in the quality of life following cancer treatment.

"The funds raised enable us to continue our investment in the fight against cancer through research, education, advocacy, and patient services," said Schwartz. "The money raised by participants goes directly to the American Cancer Society's lifesaving programs."

The evening will include opening ceremonies and a time to honor cancer survivors and caregivers, a luminaria ceremony at 10 p.m., and fun activities and entertainment throughout the event. A concession stand and children games will also be available on the grounds.

Information about how to form a team or become involved in Relay For Life is available from the American Cancer Society at 712-233-1148.

The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information anytime, call toll free 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.