Relay for Life Total: $40,113

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[Hundreds of Perry County volunteers and residents, including many cancer survivors, are now taking a well deserved rest after walking throughout the night as part of the American Cancer Society Relay For Life celebration at Du Quoin High School in Du Quoin, Ill.

More than 500 people participated in the overnight event, which raised $40,113.43 for the fight against cancer. Participants included more than 16 teams, 48 survivors, and the lighting of more than 500 luminaria to honor loved ones.

"This community really demonstrated a tremendous amount of spirit and generosity this weekend," said Susan Palmer, event chair. "I think that we all felt the power and hope of having so many cancer survivors at our side and the many luminaria that lit our way. Having these things, and knowing that cancer never sleeps, kept us focused and inspired to raise as much money as possible to help save lives and to walk around the clock in honor of those in our community who have been touched by cancer. Thanks to the huge commitment from our community, we raised over $40,000 toward our goal. It's a great feeling."

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, more than 62,400 Illinois residents will be diagnosed with cancer this year and more than 25,600 will die from the disease.

"We are so grateful to our sponsors and the many individuals who contributed to our Relay's success. Getting to and from treatment can be extremely difficult. I am so glad that all of us, through Relay For Life, can help remove this burden and worry so that patients can stay focused on getting better," said Palmer. "If you missed Relay For Life, and would still like to make a donation, there's still time to give. And, while next year's event may seem a long way off now, it's never too early to sign up your team or to contact us if you would like to help with planning."