VALDOSTA – Hundreds of participants are expected to raise funds to battle cancer Friday, May 5.

Relay For Life kicks off that evening at Lowndes High School.

The night serves to honor cancer survivors as well as lost loved ones, according to organizers.

“Your donations to Relay For Life help the American Cancer Society fund groundbreaking cancer research, critical patient care services, education and prevention initiatives, and so much more,” according to the Relay For Life website.

Relay For Life begins with an opening ceremony and survivor and caregiver laps. The laps honor the lives of people affected by cancer and honors those who have overcome the disease.

A luminaria will be held at sundown. Bags containing candles will be personalized, representing each individual. The candles will be lit inside the bags, lining the track and lighting its path.

The evening will also be filled with food, games, activities and entertainment, according to organizers.

Events are scheduled to begin 7 p.m. Friday, May 5, and will last into the night. Lowndes High School is located at 1606 Norman Drive.

As of Tuesday, Lowndes County has 56 teams and 308 participants who have raised more than $59,000 for the cause, according to the Relay For Life website.

More information: Visit relayforlife.org/lowndescountyga.