By: Oniska Blevins

The American Cancer Society Relay for Life Dallas County plans to make another grand impact in the community this year. For months, 13 relay teams have raised money to help with cancer research and treatment.

Last year was a big year for Dallas County as the teams raised more than $100,000. Organizers hope to raise even more this year.

The 13 teams raised money to help Relay for Life Dallas County reach its $125,000 goal.

The teams included local hospitals, churches, greek organizations and businesses. Each team is wrapping up their fundraising efforts and will vie for the first-place trophy awarded in each category for the team that raises the most money.  The teams will also have booths at the event and will participate in a booth competition.

The Relay for Life event is Friday, June 1 from 6-11 p.m at the Selma Lions Fair Park.

Even though the event is for a serious cause, there will also be lots of fun for relayers. Kids will have a chance to play in the bouncy house, play games and go on train rides.

Alvin Craig, Relay for Life event lead, said the funds raised have a personal effect on people right here in the community.

“Out of the $105,000 we raised last year, $77,000 of that money stayed right here for our local Dallas County citizens,” Craig said.

The funds helped 84 local citizens with their stay at the American Cancer Society Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge – Birmingham.

The funds also covered the patients’ rides to and from treatment.

Craig said cancer is prevalent in the community, and it is effecting more and more people each year.

“There are more patients being diagnosed with cancer at an alarming rate, than it was two years ago,” Craig said.

Teams are still accepting donations of any amount up until the start of the event.

The American Cancer Society will be registering cancer survivors at the event.

For more information on Relay for Life or to donate to the cause visit www.main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLCY18SOR?pg=entry&fr_id=87392