County gears up for important event

One of the most important annual events in Demopolis happens tonight.

Marengo County Relay for Life begins with a cancer survivors&8217; dinner at 5 p.m., and the opening ceremonies follow at 6 p.m. at River Field in Demopolis. Some 20 fundraising teams hope to raise $68,000 towards research for a cure for cancer.

Tonight&8217;s activities are a touchstone for our area. Cancer is a disease that touches everyone. Perhaps it was a brother, a father, an uncle &8212; or a sister, a mother, an aunt &8212; or perhaps you, dear reader, have been stricken with this serious disease.

Funds from Relay for Life can help continue the quest to beat cancer. In recent years, cancer deaths have fallen. Falling victim to cancer is no longer the death sentence it once was. Dedicated researchers have found ways to improve treatments. Doctors have become more adept at catching early warning signs of the disease.

Tonight&8217;s event is not just about raising money &8212; but if it were, it would still be a worthy cause. The other parts of Relay are simple: celebration and remembrance. Relay means remembering loved ones lost to cancer; it also means celebrating those who have survived a battle with this terrifying foe.

Come out tonight and be a part of the celebration. Be a part of the remembrance. Be a part of the community. Be a part of the cure. Be a part of hope.