It is a time to celebrate the victories of survivors, remember those who lost the fight, and dedicate resources to research so a cure can be developed. I salute all those who coordinated teams, organized fundraisers, and plan to walk on June 8-9. Many people involved are either cancer survivors, or have been touched by the disease through a family member or loved one. The American Cancer Society tracks cancer occurrence, including the number of deaths, cases and how long people survive after diagnosis. This year, about 552,200 Americans are expected to die of cancer, more than 1,500 people a day.
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, exceeded only by heart disease.
In America, one of four deaths is from cancer. Nearly five million lives have been lost to cancer since 1990. It enables entire communities, such as Covington County, to accelerate the fight against cancer. This year's overnight event will be at the Kiwanis Community Center in Andalusia. So, join a team, call your family and friends, lace up your shoes and get ready to walk for a cure.