Losing a loved one to cancer is a painful experience, but people do survive the deadly disease every day. Seeing someone survive the fight can stand as a testament to those still struggling with cancer.

Relay For Life was created to help past and current patients come together in support of one another.

During the Sycamore Relay For Life, June 22 and 23, loved ones will be able to honor those who lost, those who continue to fight and those who have won the battle.

Luminary bags are sold to participants to honor cancer patients.

“It’s a very special way of paying tribute,” said Sandy Busby, co-chair of the luminary bags and survival lap.

People who purchase a bag can have the cancer victim’s name or the survivor’s name placed on the bag, along with the patient’s picture. Families also are able to make the bag more colorful or decorate it any way they want.

The bag is white and will hold sand and a glow stick.

In previous years, the bags contained lit candles, but were replaced with glow sticks to reduce the risk of fire.

The bags will be placed in alphabetical order around the track during the luminary ceremony. At 9 p.m. the glow sticks will be broken, illuminating the bags.

When all the bags are lit, the names of all the victims and survivors will be read aloud. Participants are asked to stand still and listen.

“Whoever purchases the bag will be able to pick it up after the ceremony,” Busby said.

The bags have been used in the ceremony for about seven years, Finn said.

The ceremony will start with a parade at 5:45 p.m. beginning at the DeKalb County Courthouse in Sycamore and ending at Sycamore High School, where the relay will take place.

Area cancer survivors will be given the chance to do the first lap. Handprints from each of the survivors will be placed on a hanging white sheet as a reminder of all those who have overcome the disease.

All proceeds from the luminary bags will be donated to the American Cancer Society, which will use the money for cancer research, medical expenses for cancer patients and early detection programs.

Two years ago, 1,000 bags were purchased. Last year, 1,100 bags were lit at the ceremony.

“Every year, we hope to increase the amount,” Busby said.

“People really enjoy it. It’s a very emotional ceremony.”

The bags cost $5 and can be purchased from 3 to 8 p.m. during the event in June. They also can be bought through a team member or by calling Sandy Busby at 758-1004 or Maggie Finn, chair of the luminary bags at 895-4347.