It’s rare these days to find someone who has not been touched by cancer.

Whether directly or indirectly, cancer affects people of all ages and backgrounds — our friends, our families, our neighbors and, at times, even ourselves.

According to the American Cancer Society, there will be an estimated 30,560 new cancer cases in 2019 in Minnesota. The organization stated 30 percent of all new cancer cases in women are estimated to be tied to breast cancer, while 20 percent of all new cases in men are from prostate cancer.

Because of the far-reaching effect of cancer, we encourage you to get involved in this year’s Relay for Life, the signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, which will be Friday night.

Before the relay, residents form teams to raise money toward the fight against cancer. On the night of the event, team members and other community members take part in activities, including taking turns walking around a track to symbolize the ongoing fight against cancer.

According to the organization’s website, this year’s goal is $50,000. As of Wednesday morning, about $21,169 had been raised.

New this year, the relay will be moved downtown on Broadway and will include live music, dance exhibitions, an opening ceremony, a silent auction, dog obedience and agility demonstrations, a luminaria celebration, karaoke and a closing ceremony.

Events are slated to take place from 5 to 11 p.m. on Broadway from Fountain Street to William Street.

Get out and support your family, friends and neighbors who have battled cancer.