The American Cancer Society will host a kick-off celebration for the 2011 Relay For Life of Decatur County on Monday, Oct. 25, at 6 p.m. at The Charter House Inn.

In 2010, the Relay For Life of Decatur County raised $47,825 for the American Cancer Society. The 2011 Relay For Life of Decatur County will be held on Friday, May 6, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Bainbridge Middle School Track.

Relay For Life began with one man in Tacoma, Wash., in 1985 and is now a worldwide movement to end cancer. Relay For Life events are held across America raising funds that help the American Cancer Society achieve their mission of eliminating cancer as a major health concern.

In honor of those who battle cancer 24 hours a day, team members typically take turns walking the track throughout the day and night. For those not walking, there is constant action to keep everyone busy. From entertainment, food and games to touching ceremonies and stories of inspiration, there is something for everyone at Relay For Life. At each event, we celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer through our Survivor’s Lap and survivor recognition.

The strength of survivors inspires others to continue to fight. We also remember loved ones lost to the disease, and honor those who have survived and are currently battling the disease with our Luminaria Ceremony.

At the Relay, people who have walked alongside those battling cancer can grieve and find healing.

Finally, we fight back against cancer because we want to put an end to the disease. Relay helps individuals make a commitment to save lives by taking up the fight.

Whether you have participated in a Relay For Life before, or if you have never attended a Relay and would like to learn more about your community event, please join us for the kick-off celebration.

For more information, please visit www.relayforlife.org or call Beth Zotyka, Community Manager at (229) 246-0030 or 220-4476. You may also visit our event Web site at www.relayforlife.org\ decaturga.