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Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Relay for Life of Freeborn County will participate in a statewide Stronger Together alternative campaign, according to a press release. The Freeborn County Relay will still hold an event this year, but in a more non-traditional sense. A luminaria drive-thru will be from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Aug. 8 at Edgewater Park in Albert Lea. More details on the August event will be released as they become available.

Cancer patients are some of the most vulnerable to COVID-19. By having the option to participate in local Relay For Life events online it allows everyone — including cancer patients, survivors and their caregivers — to safely join with others to celebrate, remember and fight back, the release stated.

“With our local Relay for Life and other events that fuel the American Cancer Society’s mission altered drastically for now due to COVID-19, the fight against cancer is at risk,” said Sami Jo Helmers Nelson, senior community development manager. “But it’s a fight that can’t be cancelled, postponed or rescheduled. Cancer won’t stop, so neither can we.”

The Relay for Life of Freeborn County joins nearly 74 others from across Minnesota in fundraising and activities from June 1 through Aug. 1 during the Stronger Together campaign. Then, on Aug. 1, participants will virtually gather for an online celebration to honor survivors, recognize sponsors and participants, and the other ceremonies typically held at Relay events.

During this challenging time, patients, survivors and their caregivers are turning to the American Cancer Society for information, resources and support. Funds raised through Relay for Life help the American Cancer Society continue programs that are critical for cancer patients now, and in the future. That includes being available day or night at 1-800-227-2345 and the COVID-19 and Cancer resources at cancer.org/coronavirus.

“Cancer patients are counting on the American Cancer Society more than ever before. We simply can’t let cancer gain any ground. Join our local Relay to support the American Cancer Society and help save the fight against cancer,” Helmers Nelson said.

Those interested in joining or finding out more information can visit relayforlife.org/relaymn.