It’s hard to make it through life without knowing someone who has been affected by cancer.

But as research and technology grows, the survival rate continues to increase. Since 2014, the rate of cancer deaths has declined by 25 percent due to a reduction in smoking and improvements in early detection and treatments, according to the American Cancer Society.

However, Mississippi is expected to have over 17,000 new diagnoses in 2017.

Annual events like Relay For Life are sponsored by the ACS and aim to raise funds for research.

The only way to find a cure, or at least a more effective treatment, is through research.

The annual Pearl River County Relay for Life event is this weekend and is packed full of events aimed at raising money for this cause.

The Wish Upon a Cure theme will spread a little bit of Disney magic that will introduce cancer awareness to children in a fun, less terrifying way.

Chances are these young people will have a loved one who is diagnosed with cancer, or may even be diagnosed themselves.

But by learning about the disease, prevention and treatment, these future leaders may be inspired to become cancer researchers.

While there are many other organizations that raise money for patients and survivors, this event is just as important.

It brings the community together to support the survivors and current patients who are battling this disease.