LUCASVILLE - As cancer survivors took the first lap for the 2008 Scioto County Relay For Life, Kool and the Gang's recording of "Celebrate" brought everyone to their feet, to applaud and recognize the more than 50 survivors.

Leading the way was this year's chairwoman of the event, Jane Gee of Lucasville, a 9-1/2 year survivor of breast cancer.

Relay celebrates the lives of those who have battled cancer, remembers loved ones lost to the disease, and a new component this year - "Fight Back" - making a commitment to save lives by taking up the fight.

In the opening ceremony Friday evening at Scioto County Fairgrounds, Gee said, "We're all here for the same reason - to put an end to cancer. The next 18 hours will take us together on a life-affirming journey."

Relay celebrates the lives of those who have battled cancer and remembers loved ones lost to the disease.

Stephanie Craft, co-chairwoman, said, "Each of us has a unique reason for being here