For 40 years, those determined to be part of the fight against cancer have participated in Relay for Life events meant to raise money and awareness, and show support for those battling cancer while honoring those who have been lost.

According to the American Cancer Society, Dr. Gordon Klatt walked and ran 83.6 miles over 24 hours in May 1985 to raise money for the society. Family, friends and patients cheering him one raised $27,000.

Today in Belpre’s Civitan Park, participating groups and individuals will gather for a slightly less strenuous Relay for Life, but one that will be just as much a part of supporting the American Cancer Society’s efforts.

There will be a talent show, cake walk, a couple of bands, an auction, a luminaria ceremony and Survivors’ Dinner, amid all the rest of the activity. There are local teams that have raised money, a lap for which Lubeck Elementary School special education teacher Erma Rutter will serve as grand marshal, even entertainers and companies that have donated their time and resources to make the event special.

It’s all in the name of celebrating, remembering and carrying on the fight.

There will be other such events throughout the region — all of them pulled together with the support of volunteers who want to help end cancer and help those who are facing it now.

“It’s just something I feel like touches everybody at some point,” said Rhonda Blair, event lead for the Belpre event.

Indeed, in a region like ours, she is right. And that’s why it up to everyone — whether it be at events such as Relay for Life or through offering what support we can at other times — to join in.