It’s time to fight back against cancer.

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Cass County has set the 2011 event date for a.m. July 16 at Dowagiac Union High School.

The world’s largest grassroots fundraising movement, Relay For Life mobilizes communities throughout the country to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost and provide participants with an opportunity to fight back against the disease.

Relay brings together friends, families, businesses, hospitals, schools, faith-based groups — people from all walks of life — all aimed at furthering the American Cancer Society’s vision of creating a world with less cancer and more birthdays.

“Relay For Life provides an environment for everyone in our community to join in the fight against cancer,” said Diana Bower, chairperson. “It is truly inspiring to witness the cancer survivors in our community celebrate their victory over the disease. The luminaria ceremony gives us a time to remember those who have been impacted by this disease. The event also features a fight back ceremony where participants and community members will be able to make a personal commitment to save one life from cancer this year.”

Donations can be made to this local Relay For Life event, and participants can start a team by visiting www.relayforlife.org and clicking on find relay events.