It was a walk that contrasted sharply with so many lonely walks through endless parking lots and down long, sterile hospital hallways.

Saturday night, proud cancer survivors donned purple shirts, the color of royalty, and walked a victory lap as friends cheered and cameras captured smiles forever.

Once again Relay For Life was more that a success story; it was a gathering for a hundred different success stories.

"We all want to make a difference against cancer," stated Andrea Wells, the 2008 Relay Chairperson, as she greeted the crowd to kick-off the 8th Relay For Life held in Fannin County.

Fannin County residents turned out in large numbers and Relay For Life officials hope the event can contribute somewhere between $60,000-$80,000 to help fund research and fight cancer.

Relay For Life Chairperson, Andrea Wells greets the crowd.

A wide variety of local dancers showed off their routines.

Jim Tarpley performed a rousing rendition of "The Star Spangled Banner."

Kathleen Brooks didn't let technical difficulties with the music slow her down.

Leonard and Marie Gerner join the other survivors for a victory lap.

2007 Fannin County Fair Queen Arigayle Head

Never too young to support Relay For Life!

Fannin Bank was one of the major contributors to the Fannin County Relay For Life and the bank employees were easy to spot in their tie-dyed T-shirts.

Randy Pendergrass emceed the event.

Survivors take their victory lap.