Pretty much anyone you talk to has been touched in one way or another by cancer; in Canada alone, it is estimated by the Canadian Cancer Society that 139,900 new cases will be diagnosed in 2003, and there will be 67,400 deaths.

That's why it's so important to support events that aid cancer research, like the Relay For Life, "because cancer touches so many lives," said Relay co-chair Dawn Raymond.

"We're fighting to get rid of cancer," she added.

The third annual Relay For Life will be held this Friday and Saturday, May 30-31. The event is held as a fund-raiser for the Canadian Cancer Society, but also as a tribute to the victims and survivors of cancer. It consists of an relay throughout River Park, with teams of runners switching off with each other all night.

The fund-raising goal for this year's Relay For Life is $25,000. That's roughly three times the goal for last year's event, but, said Raymond, there are already 16 teams signed up for the event, double what they had last year. Each team consists of roughly 10 people, though some are smaller or larger.

Raymond said they ask each team member to raise $100, but there is a minimum $100 registration fee. There are awards for those who raise the most money, but also for the most spirited team.

Although there are already a number of teams signed up for the event, willing volunteers may still sign up an event by calling either Dawn and Dale Raymond, or the Canadian Cancer Society office.

As well, if a person simply wants to be participate but can't form a team, there's always room on other teams that are already formed, she said.

Those interested in helping out the relay could also volunteer to help out at the event, said Raymond, or buy luminaries at the cost of $5 each.

The special candles can be purchased at a number of local stores, the Cancer Society office, Souris Valley Extended Care, Weyburn Square Mall and SaskPower. They may be lit in honour of a cancer survivor or in the memory of a victim.

The Relay For Life starts at 6 p.m. with registration. Then comes the "Victory Lap," where survivors of cancer run or walk one lap around the track, at roughly at 7 p.m.

There will be entertainment booked from 7:30 to 10 p.m., followed by the luminary service at 10 p.m.

Runners then continue throughout the night until the final lap at 6 a.m., followed by a closing ceremony at 7 a.m. and a pancake breakfast.

New this year to the relay will be a Relay for Life "store." Throughout the night, participants in the relay will be able to take part in different activities and earn "relay bucks."

"Businesses have graciously donated prizes for our store, and they can spend their relay bucks buying these different items," said Raymond.

Raymond noted they would like to have more survivors of cancer out at the relay, as they know there are quite a few in Weyburn. Participants aren't required to run the event, or even walk; volunteers have wheelchairs and even two golf carts on hand from the golf club.