MARCO ISLAND — Celebrate. Remember. Fight back. These four words give meaning to the relay one man, Dr. Gordon Klatt, started over 25 years ago to honor his patients and raise money for the American Cancer Society (ACS).

Now known as The Relay for Life, the event is held in over 5,000 communities in the United States and 21 countries worldwide, including Marco Island. Hundreds of volunteers and walkers joined in the fight against cancer in the 8th Annual Relay for Life held at Mackle Park this past Saturday and Sunday.

People of all ages came out to participate, help spread cancer awareness and raise money to find a cure while honoring loved ones lost to the battle and those who are survivors. This year the ACS’s Marco Island Chapter chose a TV theme, “Changing the Channel on Cancer.”

Teams represented networks such as Nickelodeon, ESPN Sports Center and the series “Touched By An Angel.” Each team illustrated their respective theme at a tent they had set up where they sold food and or various cancer awareness items such as t-shirts and hats. All proceeds benefited the ACS.

Nancy and Len Larsen come out to show their support each year.

“We are both survivors and that is why it’s so important. It gives us a great feeling,” said Len who had gastric stomach cancer leaving her with two-thirds of her stomach removed.

During the two day event 12 teams took part, ranging from two to 50 people per team. Throughout the day Saturday, attendees participated in activities such as volley ball tournaments, water balloon fights, face paintings and musical performances.

The opening ceremonies, held on Saturday evening, were kicked off with the color guard Marco Island VFW Post 6370 standing at attention during Marva Sutt’s rendition of the national anthem.

Sutt, a cancer survivor herself, was awarded the Star Support Award which recognizes one individual for their dedication and work in support of the event.

Subsequent to the national anthem, Sutt honored Lisa Meurgue with the Sandy Holdgate award. This award signifies the spirit of Relay and is dedicated to Sandy Holdgate who was part of the Marco Island community and sadly lost her third battle with cancer this past year.

Councilman, Jerry Gibson and Collier County District 1 Commissioner, Donna Fiala, offered opening comments and words of encouragement.

“All the strides taken over these two days bring us one step closer to a cure for cancer,” reminded Gibson.

The first lap honored cancer survivors and was led by honorary survivors Dante Sciallis and Meurgue. The two were selected by community and Relay committee members.

In addition to the survivors’ honorary award and lap, there was also a caregivers’ lap and award called the Bert Brewer Care Giver award. This award was accepted by Virginia Welch of Marco Island.

A survivor’s dinner followed the opening ceremonies where volunteers served a buffet style hot meal donated by Joey’s and Sunset Grill.

After the dinner a candle light vigil was held outside on Saturday night. The Luminaria Ceremony is targeted toward the “remember” section of the slogan and honored those who have passed or are currently fighting a battle against cancer.

Hundreds of candles lined the path and everyone in attendance joined for the solemn walk around. The vigil ignited hope for the event which concluded on Sunday with a morning church service and closing ceremonies.

Although the grand total of funds raised for this year’s event is not yet calculated, it is not expected to exceed last year’s $110,000. According to Relay committee chair, Cheryl Axelson, the economic hardships have had some effect.

This year’s top fundraising team was “Touched By An Angel,” Cape Marco Monterrey team. Collectively they raised over $8,200 for the cause.

“It’s great to see people come out for the cause and help to fund future research,” said Jason Bengtson of Naples. Bengston lost his mother to breast cancer in 1994 when he was just 16 years old. He came out with friends who live on Marco Island and supported the event.