One sign of a quality community is the success of organizations like Ashe County’s Relay for Life.

Relay turned out last weekend to raise money to fight cancer. It was no simple task. Organizations got together and planned events, put teams in the field to stay out all night and show that since cancer never sleeps never will the effort to fight the disease.

But the ideal of fighting cancer can be a theoretical venture until we see that many of our loved ones and friends have struggled with the illness and the cures for the disease.

One reason Relay for Life works is because people are really out supporting their family and friends.

They see it as something they can do to help a father or mother, a child or a friend.

Many of them have see the pain and sickness the disease of cancer produces. They have seen it, heard and felt it day in and day out for people they love.

While the struggle can be a challenge for the direct victim and those surrounding it, the rallying of friends and family is essential in the battle.

Often times the little assists, the little words of encouragement, the little bit of cheer can help the cancer sufferer make it one more step through the fear, anger and physical pain.

Ashe countians have shown their willingness to stand up in support of one another, giving their dollars and time and energy to fight the overall battle, but also to fight the daily struggle for loved ones.

We can all be glad we live in a community that includes people like that.