Come 6 p.m. today, hundreds of Pike County residents will be lacing up their shoes and walking around a makeshift track behind the Troy Sportsplex. Hundreds more will be there cheering them on, all part of the annual Relay for Life event.

Each year, more than 4 million people in more than 20 countries take part in this global effort to raise much-needed funds to fight cancer and awareness, both about the fight and the people who face the battle.

It’s an emotional event, from the joyous and upliftifing survivors walk that starts the Relay to the solemn, moving luminary laps during which the names of those who have battled – and many times lost their fight against – cancer are read aloud.

The luminaries, sponsored again this year by Troy Bank & Trust, are among the most heart-felt and touching tributes to cancer survivors and the memories of those who have battled cancer. They can be purchased throughout the day at the main branch of Troy Bank & Trust for $5. In addition to being listed on the luminary for the Relay walk and read aloud at the event, the individual will be recognized in The Messenger.

For so many of us, this is an important way of honoring our friends, family and loved ones who have inspired us, loved us and touched our lives.

The luminaries are only a portion of the Relay event, though. Along the way there’s plenty of good times and good fun – teams gather together with tents for fun and fellowship, dancers and singers entertain, and the community enjoys a fun, wholesome evening spent raising funds for a good cause.

We hope to see you there.