PROCTORVILLE - Nightlife will be abound at Fairland High School’s athletic stadium May 7 during the second annual Relay For Life slated to kick off at 6 p.m. with a cancer survivors' victory lap and reception.

According to co-chairpersons Stephanie Burcham and Jerry McConnell,

the action begins in the evening to signify that there is no end to the battle of cancer.

"From sunset to sunrise … because cancer never sleeps," McConnell said.

"Relay for Life is the American Cancer Society's signature event that allows the community to make a difference in the fight against cancer," said John Lang of the South Central Area Office of the American Cancer Society.

The national volunteer fund-raiser is designed to bring everyone in the community together for those battling cancer, survivors of the disease and as a tribute to those who have been lost to the disease. The continuous and ultimate goal is to one day eradicate the disease.

Cancer survivors and their family and friends from the Tri-State area are invited.

"This is a celebration of hope. It will create a sense of community by bringing people together in a moving and fun atmosphere," Lang said.

"Last year, we had individuals participating

from nearly every community in Lawrence County," said McConnell, who is Fairland's superintendent of schools. "A lot of friendships were made and a lot of individuals who had not seen each other for a long time found one another at this event."

Lang said more than $40,000 was raised last year.

"We're proud of our success last year," he said. "We are hoping this year will be bigger and better. The community has taken this event to another level."

Fund-raising efforts for Relay For Life that will occur prior to the big event include bingo, community rummage sales and a Bluegrass show.

Jeff Floyd and the Greasy Ridge Church of Christ team was among those that participated last year. He said the team's sights this year are set on raising $5,000.

"The relay is fun to be involved in, but (it is) for a serious and important cause," he said. "The American Cancer Society is also a cause that everyone has been touched by in one way or another."

Cancer survivors planning on attending dusk-to-dawn events need to check in at Fairland West Elementary at 5 p.m. where they will be presented medallions and escorted to the track. Featured events also include a luminary ceremony, food, live entertainment and awards-presentation.

"There is no finish line until we find a cure," Burcham said.

For more information, call Burcham at 886-7655 or McConnell at 886-3100.