VAN HORNE – Because of you and all our loyal supporters, the American Cancer Society made a profound impact in 2021. The ACS continued their mission in 2021 — working around the clock to lead the fight for a world without cancer. Advances were made in discovering new ways to prevent, find, and treat cancer and to improve the quality of life for people living with cancer. They advocated for improved access to care and provided patient support services across the country and right here in Benton County. Here is 2021 at a glance:

• Total number of active US research grants – 689
• Reemergence of the Road To Recovery program the provides free rides to cancer appointments and treatment
• Funding for cancer-related transportation costs – $2 million
• Reopening of most Hope Lodge locations under new COVID 19 protocols
• $395 million invested in cancer research and cancer prevention
• Protected free access to critical cancer screenings in 33 states and helped increase funding in six states for people who cannot afford them

The Benton County Relay For Life to support the American Cancer Society is just around the corner! The Relay will be held Sunday, June 5 – National Cancer Survivors’ Day – from 6 PM through 10 PM at the Benton Community High School track in Van Horne. Activities throughout the evening will include: games, balloon clown, quilt raffle tickets available for purchase, ACS trivia questions for prizes, luminaria available for purchase, concession stand, music DJ, and continual relay walking. The specific schedule is:

• 5:45 – 6:30 Survivor Sign-in for free T-shirt
• 6:00 – Opening Ceremonies
• 7:00 – Survivors’ Ceremony
• 8:00 – Announcement of Quilt Raffle Fundraiser winner
• 9:00 – Luminaria Lighting

Please join our local community in supporting the fight against cancer right here in Benton County! Come with all your family and friends to remember those who lost their battle to cancer, those who are currently battling, and those who survived their battle. Help us in the fight for a world without cancer!