Becky Sabino became involved in American Cancer Society's Relay for Life in 2001 when her husband, Marc, was diagnosed with the disease.

"People should become involved in the fund-raiser because cancer touches so many lives," said the co-chairman of this year's 10th annual event. "One in three will be diagnosed with the disease in their lifetime."

Although research has accomplished much in the field, there still is much to accomplish. "People need to be made aware of the disease, because the earlier they are made aware the better," she said.

This year's Relay is set for 9 a.m. June 14 to 9 a.m. June 15 at Mercer High School's track. "It's the American Cancer Society's signature fund-raiser," she said.

Each member of the eight- to 15-person teams solicits funds that go to cancer research. "A large portion stays here for programs for patients," said the Farrell resident.

"The programs include the 'Road for Recovery,' which provides rides to patients getting treatment; and 'Reach for Recovery,' which matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors who give them support."

The Relay is aiming for about 45 teams and hopes to raise $96,000. Raffles and games will be held throughout the 24-hour period, along with a cancer control awareness program.

"We're going to have some singing groups, and Trapper John," said Mrs. Sabino. "We're still working out some of the entertainment details. The mayor of Mercer (Christopher Portman) is going to speak before the survivor program."

The main feature will be the survivor programs at 6:30 p.m. June 14. "There's a victory lap, where cancer survivors celebrate their victory over the disease. The opening usually is at 9 a.m., but a lot of people aren't there by that time, so we changed it."

The track is lighted with candles placed in bags during a luminaria ceremony at dusk. "The candles are purchased in honor of a cancer survivor or one who has lost their battle with the disease," said Mrs. Sabino. "The names are also read."

"One of my co-workers at Access in Canfield, Ohio, is in charged of the luminaria this year," she said, noting she and her husband also have family members who will take part.

"If people would like to purchase luminaria in honor or memory of a loved one, they can do so through the ACS office for a donation of $5. Survivors can also register to participate in the survivor walk by calling the ACS office."

The theme of this year's Relay will reflect its 10th anniversary observance. "Each year we have a theme for the Relay and the teams are encouraged to decorate their camp sites to match the theme," said Mrs. Sabino. "This year our theme is 'Happy Birthday Relay.' "

Mrs. Sabino said the organization is increasing its efforts to promote the event. "Recently we participated in the Grove City Trade Show at Grove City College and signed up 10 new survivors to participate in this year's Relay. We will have a booth at the Shenango Valley Mall on April 22 through 26 during the mall's Spring Bazaar. Finally, we are sponsoring a flea market and garage sale event at Reynolds Drive-In on May 3.

"We are also available to speak to groups who may be interested in participating in the Relay," said Mrs. Sabino. "Arrangements can be made by contacting the ACS office or calling me.

"We are very proud of being the oldest Relay in Mercer County and very excited that we now have two sister Relays," said Mrs. Sabino. "One is next month at Grove City College and one is in July at Greenville High School.

Team members and those interested in becoming involved can attend a meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday in Faith Presbyterian Church, 2370 N. Hermitage Road, Hermitage.

Information: (724) 346-3529. Earl Butterfield, event chairman, can be reached at (724) 646-2675.