Relay For Life brings hope to Arlington Heights

More than a hundred cancer survivors and volunteers came together Friday night for the annual American Cancer Society Relay For Life at John Hersey High School in Arlington Heights.

Their message was simple: Show love for each other and spread the message that nobody is alone in their struggles.

Sarah Fader, master of ceremonies and entertainment chairman for the event, said Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society's biggest event, and more than 4 million people participate in 20 countries.

"Cancer never sleeps, so neither do we. It's time to Relay!" she yelled to the crowd to get the event started. Ed and Cheryl Tyrcha of Mount Prospect, both cancer survivors, were participating in their sixth Relay For Life Friday night.

Ed had kidney cancer, while Cheryl had breast cancer. They gave each other love and support during their battle against cancer, and coined their motto, "Get that cancer out of my body" to give each other strength, they said. Like the American Cancer Society, their mission is to celebrate more birthdays. The couple said Ed has been in remission for more than a year and Cheryl has been in remission for seven years.

Relay For Life events include people walking for 24 hours, signifying that cancer never sleeps. Proceeds benefit American Cancer Society programs.

For details, visit relayforlife.org.