Relay For Life of Blair County set for June 14

The American Cancer Society's Relay For Life of Blair County and presenting sponsor Element Solutions Foundation welcomes the public to join in this year as the theme is "Striking Out Cancer" on Saturday, June 14.

The public will come together for a full day of remembrance, celebration and community support at Mansion Park, Altoona, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

This annual event brings together families, survivors, caregivers and advocates in the fight against cancer. The day will feature live entertainment, children's activities, a variety of food and moving ceremonies to honor those affected by cancer.

The opening ceremony will begin at 10 a.m., with the national anthem performed by Rebecca Rhodes. The event will also recognize participating teams and sponsors for their dedication to the cause.

This year's Ambassador is Madeleine (Maddie) Letsche.

Cancer survivors and their caregivers are invited to attend a Survivor Dinner at 5 p.m., donated by Olive Garden and Sam's Club of Altoona, followed by a Survivor Ceremony and Lap at 7 p.m.

The American Cancer Society recognizes a person with cancer as a survivor from the moment of diagnosis.

One of the most moving parts of the event will be the Luminaria Ceremony at 8:45 p.m., during which personalized luminaria bags are illuminated. These bags, decorated with names, messages and photos, honor those lost to cancer, as well as survivors and those currently fighting the disease.

Luminaria will be available for purchase at the event or in advance at Relay For Life of Blair's website.

The event will have the concession stand open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. with food and beverages available for purchase.

Families can enjoy the Relay Rascals Kids Zone open from noon to

5 p.m., featuring games and other fun activities.

Special recognition is given to sponsors Element Solutions Foundation, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Kish Bank, Wehnwood United Methodist Church, Penn Highlands Healthcare, ARC Federal Credit Union, Park Home, Lawruk Builders, Inc., Pace Analytical, Musical Society Unter Uns, Stuckey Subaru and Seven Mountains Media.

Each year, more than 250,000 participants take part in Relay For Life events across the country, raising critical funds and awareness in the fight against cancer.

Since its founding in 1985, Relay For Life has raised more than $6.8 billion to support the American Cancer Society's mission to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.

Organizers invite the community to attend the Relay For Life of Blair County and help make a lasting difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

For more information or to get involved, visit Relay For Life of Blair's website.