Cancer Fighters Gear Up for Sixth Annual Relay for Life

National Cancer Survivors Day is Sunday, and Lake Forest residents are doing their part to help those battling the disease.

The city's American Cancer Society Relay for Life isn't until October, but preparations are already under way for the 24-hour fundraiser.

The official kickoff took place Wednesday at in Foothill Ranch.

Lake Forest's 24-hour-long Relay for Life is scheduled to take place at  and starts Oct. 1 at 10 a.m.

It will be the sixth annual Lake Forest Relay for Life, an event that supports the American Cancer Society, which calls itself the "official sponsor of birthdays."

More birthdays for those battling cancer is what Relay for Life is all about, organizer Cheryl Bartetzko said.

"We’re taking a day out of our lives to celebrate and remember those who are battling the disease and remember those we’ve lost," Bartetzko said.

Teams, from families, community organizations, companies, schools, faith-based organizations and other groups, sign up for the event and raise funds up until the 24-hour get-together.

At the kickoff event Wednesday, special mention was made of Gail Bell, manager at the Walmart store in Foothill Ranch, and Joe Moscatiello with , for their past and current support of Lake Forest's Relay teams, Bartetzko said.

According to the Lake Forest Relay for Life website, seven teams with a total of 23 participants have already raised $1,320 for the 2011 relay.

To get involved in this year's Relay for Life, call Jennifer Patalsky at 949-567-0603, or email her.

For additional information, visit the Lake Forest Relay for Life website.