The Relay for Life may be months away, but supporters of the American Cancer Society took their first steps of support on Saturday at the Millcreek Mall.
Michelle Ducharme, the Senior Development Manager for the American Cancer Society explained the basis of the event, "Volunteers come together and take their first committed steps in the new year to recommit themselves to fighting back against cancer."


Erie Sirgrist was one of the volunteers who took her first step of the year, like she's done for more than a decade. "It is a great event, it's fun, but more importantly because it is supports a really important cause which is the American Cancer Society. What I love about the American Cancer Society is that they make the best use of their mission dollars, that you know none goes to waste and they're really supporting the mission in they do every cancer every person", said Sigirst.


Sigrist like many others lost a loved one to cancer which is why she encourages people to get involved with the organization. "When people ask why should I get involved my answer is because you can and because you should. It will touch you, if it hasn't done before and there are so many different ways to get involved you don't have to go to the event, there's something for everyone that matches their interests and needs."


In addition to committing to take that first step for the Relay for Life and the American Cancer society, organizers also revealed this year's theme,  "Let's Beach Cancer.


"So it is a beach theme and sun safety and we make sure everybody remembers their sunscreen and we like to pick them every year just to incorporate more fun", explained Ducharme.


Saturday's event was also a way to hold people accountable until the Relay for Life in June. As Ducharme explained, "It shows the year-round commitment to fighting cancer. It's not just today and you can be involved with us in so many different ways and there's a great opportunity to take a moment and talk about all the ways you can be involved beyond the hubbub of event day."

if you are interested in volunteering for the Relay for Life happening at Iroquois High School Track and Field on June 22, representatives from the American Cancer Society will be at the community booth at the Millcreek Mall on Sunday.