We hesitated at first to write about the luminaria ceremony that’s scheduled to take place on Sunday starting at 5 p.m. and going into the evening. On this page, guest columnist Billie Turner already eloquently states the case of how Relay For Life not only raises money for cancer research and treatment, but also more importantly for the support it generates for people diagnosed and coping with the disease in its myriad of forms.

Instead, we simply want to encourage readers to attend the program regardless if you did not participate in the Relay event this past spring. Your presence can be like the candles that illuminate the ceremony to remember those who fought their personal struggle against the disease. By fellowshipping with others, by witnessing the recognitions and taking the encouraging words to heart, you strengthen the local effort in the national movement to give hope to patients and caregivers alike.