During the Relay For Life of Hartselle, the American Cancer Society will hold a Luminaria Ceremony to honor, remember and celebrate the lives that have been touched by cancer. Luminaria will be lit at 10 p.m. on Fri., April 20 at JP Cain Stadium to represent these individuals.

The Luminaria Ceremony provides an opportunity to reminisce and celebrate not only the lives of these extraordinary individuals but also their strength and courage. This touching ceremony highlights the importance of defeating this disease and striving toward a world with less cancer and more birthdays.

Luminaria are available for a minimum donation of $5 (white bag) and $25 (gold bag). Relay is also offering sky lanterns this year for a minimum donation of $25. For a minimum donation of $100.00, you may also dedicate a torch in memory/honor of someone who has been touched by cancer, which also includes a small plaque. At the end of the event, you will be allowed to keep the plaque honoring your loved one.

“The Luminaria Ceremony is a moving way to remember loved ones lost to cancer and to pay tribute to cancer survivors. Each luminaria represents the life of someone who has battled cancer. It is a beautiful sight when all the bags with candles are illuminated around the track,” said Robin Puckett, Luminara Chair for Relay For Life of Hartselle.

Since its beginning in 1985, Relay For Life has developed from one man running around a track for 24 hours to a full-fledged international event taking place in more than 5,000 communities and 20 countries across the globe with nearly 4 million walkers in the United States alone. Relay For Life takes place overnight on an athletic track, park or other gathering area. Individuals and teams register for the event and set up camp with the goal of keeping at least one team member on the track or pathway at all times. Teams raise money before the event and during the event at their personal campouts. All of the funds raised from Relay For Life supports the American Cancer Society’s mission to help people stay well and get well, find cures and fight back.

To purchase a luminaria, sky lantern, or torch for the event, simply fill out the form. For more information on forming a team for Relay For Life or more information on purchasing a luminaria, call 1-800-227-2345.