Relay For Life is a fun-filled overnight event, and what some call a big slumber party.

Teams of eight to 15 members will gather with tents and sleeping bags at Brunswick High School to join more than 5,000 communities nationwide hosting Relays.

Teams seek sponsorships prior to the Relay, all with the goal of raising funds to help eliminate cancer.

“The funds raised enable us to continue our investment in the fight against cancer through research, education, advocacy, and patient services,” said Donna Muto of the American Cancer Society. “The money raised by participants goes directly to the American Cancer Society’s lifesaving programs that benefit local people.”

Relay For Life begins as cancer survivors, patients, and caregivers from throughout the area are invited to unite in a Survivor Lap, which takes place directly after the opening ceremony at 6:30 p.m., followed by a reception.

As the event progresses, a festive atmosphere develops around the track. Walkers make new friends and spend time with old ones, the Relay heats up, and the fun begins. A feeling of camaraderie is created as teams entertain each other with games, contests, theme laps and, of course, walking for a great cause.

Because cancer never sleeps, Relay For Life is an overnight event. Participants do not have to walk all night, but each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event.

Highlighting the evening is the Luminaria Ceremony after dark to honor cancer survivors and remember those we have lost. Luminarias line the track and are left burning throughout the night to remind participants of the incredible importance of their contributions.

“It will be beautiful when all the bags with candles are illuminated around the track,” said Theresa Barry, luminaria co-chair for the Brunswick event. “We hope to sell enough to light the entire area.”

The ceremony will begin at 9:30 p.m. Friday, May 17. Luminarias can be purchased for $10 each and are available by calling 1-800-227-2345.

For more information about volunteering at the Relay, forming a team, purchasing luminarias or walking in the survivors’ lap, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or online at www.relayforlife.org/brunswickme.

Join with friends, family, businesses, hospitals, schools, religious groups and people from all over the Bath/Brunswick community at the Relay For Life event at Brunswick High School on May 17-18. Sign up your team today by visiting www.relayforlife.org/brunswickme or call 1-800-227-2345.

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