Lighting the way toward a cure

Cancer.

It’s a word describing a disease that has unfortunately crept its way into nearly every person’s life in one way or another. Some have battled the disease themselves, others have supported a family member or friend going through treatment, and others have tragically lost a person close to them to one of the hundreds of forms this disease takes.

The impacts of cancer can truly be devastating on so many levels, but the efforts to find cures for cancer is ongoing and often inspiring.

One such inspirational event is the American Cancer Society’s East Clark County Relay for Life.

This year, participants in the annual event will “Cruise for a Cure” as it moves from Fishback Stadium in Washougal to the track at Skyridge Middle School on Parker Street in Camas. It begins with opening ceremonies at 10 a.m. on Saturday, and runs through 10 a.m. on Sunday with closing ceremonies.

Among the most poignant aspects of the event are the cancer survivors’ lap on Saturday, at 10 a.m., and the luminaria ceremony at 10 p.m., during which hundreds of lights, each created in memory or in honor of someone impacted by cancer, line the track.

To keep spirits high throughout the 24-hour fundraiser, there will also activities and events including a silent auction, cake walks, bingo, water balloon toss, watermelon eating contest, karaoke and glow-in-the-dark croquet.

According to an article in today’s Post-Record, so far there are 453 relay participants registered and $35,750 has been raised.

There are many ways to get involved in the effort — volunteer at the event, raise money for the cause, or just stop by on Saturday or Sunday and honor those who have survived this disease, those who lost their battle, and those who are working for a cure.