The football field at Riverbank High School is going to be transformed this weekend.

“There is something amazing happening in Riverbank,” explained Lisa Alba. “It’s the Relay For Life of Riverbank and you can be a part of this wonderful event. If you have ever wondered how you can make a difference, please join us in our efforts to support the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Riverbank.”

This 24-hour signature fundraising event for the American Cancer Society will begin on Saturday, June 7 and run through Sunday, June 8 at Riverbank High School, 6200 Claus Road, on the football field.

“The opening ceremony starts at 9 a.m. Saturday, followed by the Survivor Lap,” Alba said. “Any cancer survivor can sign up to walk the survivor lap.”

Those that want to participate can go online to Relay For Life of Riverbank and click sign up or call Alba at 209-300-1333. Special events will be offered throughout the day on Saturday, with the luminaria ceremony starting at 9 p.m. on Saturday and closing ceremonies at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 8. Those that want to donate a luminaria bag for the event can also do that on line.

“Saturday we have a whole day of activities planned, food, live music,” Alba shared. “We have a Brownie Girl Scout, seven-year-old Marissa Casillas, who is going to donate over nine inches of her hair.”

Donated hair that meets the specific criteria is used to help make wigs for those patients who have lost their hair due to cancer treatment.

Also due, the band Kickstart is coming out at 4 p.m. to play and entertain the participants.

Relay For Life is a family-oriented event, where participants can walk or run on a track, relay style, for 24 hours with someone from each team on the track at all times. Participants camp around the track, and when they are not taking their turn on the track, they can take part in other fun activities. Former and current cancer patients, their families, and the public are invited to come out for this exciting team relay event. Teams consist of individuals representing corporations, clubs, organizations, families, friends, caregivers and survivors.

“It is a group of people ‘Fighting Back’ against cancer, as we hope to raise money so one day we can find a cure,” Alba said.

The event returns to the high school this year, and information on the Relay For Life website indicates there are more than 15 teams signed up and ready to go for the weekend event.