Relay for Life Will Kick Off Campaign at Great Lakes Mall

The American Cancer Society will kick off its Relay for Life campaign Saturday afternoon at Great Lakes Mall.

The kickoff includes an hour-long Zumbathon from 1 to 2 p.m. (Registration begins at 12:15 p.m.) It costs $10 to participate with the proceeds going to the American Cancer Society.

Then, from 2:15 p.m. to 2:45 p.m., there will be a special kickoff program in the Macy's department store concourse where they will honor cancer survivors and get people psyched for this year's Relay for Life.

Molly Smith, a community income development manager for American Cancer Society, said they have been raising funds for cancer treatment and research in Lake County for years. And, this year, they may cross the $3 million mark.

That means people in Lake County will have raised $3 million for life-saving research and programs that help more than 14 million cancer survivors around the country.

Smith added that there has been a 20 percent decrease in cancer mortality rates since its peak in 1991. That translates to 1.2 million fewer deaths per year.

Beyond the kickoff, there are other ways people can support the fight against cancer.

The Willoughby Brewing Company will host a Super Bowl party on February 3 that will benefit the American Cancer Society.

Tickets will cost $30 beforehand or $35 at the door -- if the event is not sold out; only 200 tickets total will be available.

The event will have free appetizers, an open bar, a basket raffle, squares, side boards and more.

For more information on the Super Bowl party, contact Molly Smith at 1-888-227-6446 ext. 1206 or molly.smith@cancer.org.

Also central Lake County will have its annual Relay for Life on June 1 and 2 this year at Lake Catholic High School. (See photos from last year's Relay at Lake Catholic.)

Click here for information on how to sign up or donate to the local relay.