THERE is a public service announcement currently running on the radio which says someone dies every two or three days here in Guam from cancer. That’s more than 150 deaths a year; over the course of a few years, virtually every family here will be touched by this dread disease.

Tonight at the George Washington High School track, hundreds will gather for the American Cancer Society’s annual Relay for Life. It brings together friends, families, businesses, hospitals, schools, faith-based groups ... people from all walks of life, says a news release from the cancer society.

If the weather is nice, many folks will spend the night. Some of the runners and athletes will actually try and keep the relay going all night – the closing ceremony is at 7 a.m. tomorrow. But for most it will be a combination cook-out and party to celebrate life, and honor those who have passed.

One of the most tender and solemn moments will take place at 9 p.m., when hundreds of luminaria – lighted bags – will be set, each representing an individual cancer victim. Earlier, the feature of the opening ceremony at 7 p.m. will be a survivor and caregiver “victory lap.” People who’ve beaten the Big C will jog, walk or even wheel their way around the track to the cheers of spectators.

Joe Rios chairs tonight’s event. “Relay for Life is a unique opportunity for our community to come together to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember those we’ve lost, and fight back against the disease,” he says. “Many of the participants are cancer survivors, which serves as a reminder of the reason that we continue the work to finish the fight and find a cure.”

This is a special year for the relay as the American Cancer Society is marking 100 years of saving lives from cancer and funding research for a cure. That, said Cora Yanger Bejado, is an incredible milestone. She is the managing director of marketing and communications at GTA, which is this year’s “presenting sponsor” for the relay. The event promises to raise several hundred thousand dollars for the work of the ACS.

If you plan on heading to GW, leave early – and expect to walk a bit if you don’t, as parking can be a problem.

We salute the American Center Society, GTA, and all of the businesses and individuals who’ve worked on this year’s event. Have a wonderful evening!