Cancer impacts so many people’s lives. It would be difficult to find someone who hasn’t either fought the disease or knew someone who did.

In fact, more than 1 million people in the United States are diagnosed with cancer each year, according to the American Cancer Society. Fortunately, as the largest voluntary health organization, the ACS’ efforts have contributed to a 22 percent decline in cancer death rates in the U.S. during the past two decades, and a 50 percent drop in smoking rates.

One of the largest efforts to raise awareness and funds for the ACS is Relay for Life and, this weekend, that effort kicks off with a specially-themed event that celebrates the bond between humans and their canine companions.

Bark for Life will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Lawrence County Fairgrounds. The celebration will include doggie games, dress-up contests, music, food and a 1-mile walk.

Last year, more than 20,000 registered canine and caregiver participants at 300 Bark For Life events across the country raised $1.2 million.

These events, while seemingly small for one community, add up to a great deal of support when the efforts of hundreds of communities are combined.

We encourage Lawrence County residents to help do their part to fight cancer, one step at a time.