Dozens of walkers — some as teams and others as individuals — participated in the 33rd annual Anthracite Relay for Life on Saturday, held in the Tamaqua High School Stadium.

The event benefits the American Cancer Society.

Wanda Nerino, walk and luminaria chairwoman, said one team had 15 members, adding she was pleased with the turnout.

She said the event brings together cancer survivors, caregivers, teams and neighbors to celebrate survivorship, honor those fighting cancer, and remember loved ones lost to the disease.

The main speaker was Dr. Mounika Mukherjee Peethala, a rural family medicine resident with St. Luke’s University Health Network, who works in Lansford, Hometown and Ringtown.

She spoke on the importance of cancer screenings and made attendees of the services available locally at St. Luke’s rural family medicine clinics.

Also speaking was Ashley Benko, who oversees the Star Community Health Center.

Joe Krushinsky, chairman of the American Cancer Society’s Lehigh Valley Board, offered remarks.

Vocal selections were performed by Angela Nardini and Skyy Boyer. The band Hatter also performed.

Personnel from St. Luke’s volunteered at the stadium’s refreshment stand.

In the evening, luminaries were lit and placed around the stadium track.

Nerino said, “The evening serves as a vital fundraiser for cancer research, local advocacy and services, and patient care initiatives managed by the American Cancer Society.