M

eeting those who are involved with the Relay for Life organization in Selma will teach you one thing — that we are all connected to at least one person with cancer. Maybe it was an aunt, uncle, grandparent or friend who had cancer. Maybe they are a survivor, but maybe they fell victim.

Each year the American Cancer Society sets aside a day and time to celebrate the victories over the disease and celebrate the memories of those who were not as lucky. Everyone in Selma is connected to at least one person who has had cancer and has been affected by this terrible disease.

The Relay for Life Selma will be Friday, April 19 beginning at 7 p.m. It will be taking place in the Wallace Community College Gymnasium because of the 70 percent chance of showers. It was previously scheduled to be outdoors.

We want to call on all Selma residents to not only participate in this walk against cancer, but encourage them to bring friends and family members who were also affected by the vicious disease.

The night is a fun family event for everyone and one organizer even called it a, “party with a purpose.”

All of the funds raised go to the American Cancer Society — which funds research for cancer and finds ways to help those who are currently sick with the disease. They also fund educational programs that get the message out about cancer prevention.

“Cancer has no respect for person, and we need everybody to be involved,” said Tanya Miles, who is one of the event organizers. “Dallas County is a big county and we have our people here who need help. We’re here in the Black Belt and we’re supposed to be the poorest county, but when our people show up, they show out.”

To sign up for a team call 334-412-9675.