It may be a few weeks later than normal and it’s most certainly not where you’re used to seeing it.

But the East Wake Relay For Life is nearly ready to get down to some serious fund-raising.

This year’s event will be held Friday and Saturday at Five County Stadium in Zebulon.

The venue, as we’ve said before in this space, is the kind donation of the Carolina Mudcats, who came to the rescue when the Wake County school system began enforcing rules designed to keep the public away from public school facilities.

But far more important than the location is the cause.

Hundreds of thousands of dollars will be raised over the weekend for cancer research and support services for people with cancer and their families.

No longer whispered in shame, cancer remains a deadly disease for many who contract it.

But research, aided in part by fund raising events like the East Wake Relay For Life, has helped a growing number of people beat the illness through improved treatment and better detection.

Still the battle has not been won. Cancer still kills too many of our friends, relatives and neighbors. If you haven’t already joined the fight, consider this plea to make it out to Five County Stadium Friday night or Saturday.

Opening ceremonies begin at 6 p.m. with a Survivor’s Lap. The luminary ceremony will begin at 9 p.m. This year’s theme is Marga-Relay-Ville.

The support you show, and the money you donate, will go a long way toward battling a demon we’ve all struggled with in one way or another.