(ROCHESTER, MI) - Families, friends, survivors and local business are preparing to participate in the 12th annual Relay For Life of the Greater Rochester Area.  The event will take place on June 26, 2010 from 9am through 9am June 27, 2010 at Hart Middle School.

For the past 11 years, the Rochester Community has hosted and supported the American Cancer Societies signature fundraiser, Relay For Life in its lifesaving mission to eliminate cancer as a major health issue.  Last year more than 38 teams participated at the Rochester event and raised over $118,000.00.  In support of the ACS mission, the 2010, Planning Committee set a goal to increase participation to 46 teams as well as increase fundraising efforts.

The Relay For Life is a fun-filled overnight event designed to raise money for research and programs of your American Cancer Society, celebrate survivorship and remember those we have lost their battle to this horrible disease.  Weeks before the event, friends, families and co-workers create a team, participate in pre-event fundraising activities, and on event day they set up a campsite, play games, eat great food, and laugh all while they take turns walking laps around the Relay campsite.  The celebration of survivorship is in the air, shared tears, hugs and smiles and laughter. The walk continues for 24 hours, team members relay to keep at least one member on the track at all times. Remember, cancer never sleeps.

For many people who attend Relay For Life, one of the most moving elements of the event is the Ceremony of Hope. As the light dims over campsites and team member's complete laps, the night is brightened by the glow of lighted bags called luminaries, each of which has a special meaning. Some luminaries celebrate the survivorship of people who have battled cancer and lived to tell the tale. Many commemorate the lives of those who have been lost to this disease. All represent a person who has been profoundly affected by cancer and the family and friends who continue to be touched by that experience.

How can you make a difference in the fight against cancer? Join the Rochester Relay.  Register as a survivor, start a team of your own, join an existing team, order a luminary, or make a donation to this event, please visit Relay Online: www.relayforlife.org/rochestermi

Sign up today to become a part of the Relay For Life® effort in our community and you too can fight back against cancer.  If you have any questions about the Rochester Relay event, please call Monique Anthus at 248 652 4845 or email manthus2@comcast.net.