Members of the Central Coast community came out to raise awareness about cancer at Relay for Life in Santa Maria on Saturday.
The American Cancer Society hosted the event to bring the community together for those who have battled cancer and to remember those who have lost their lives from the disease. Teams and individuals took turns running or walking around the path in hopes of fundraising for the organization and its mission.
The theme of this year’s Relay for Life was called “Force for a Cure,” as inspired by the film franchise, “Star Wars.”
The event included music, food and prizes for attendees. A Luminaria ceremony was planned for sundown to recognize those who have lost their lives while fighting the disease.
More than 30 teams participated in the Five Cities Relay for Life and raised more than $100,000.
Around 6,000 Relay for Life events have been hosted worldwide, with more than four million participants contributing to the cause.
