PHOTOS: Relay for Life Brings HOPE for Cancer Survivors

The day was festive, the night memorable, and the next morning bought cancer survivors and their loved ones another day of life.

They had gathered to volunteer or participate in the annual Relay for Life of Aliso Viejo, Saturday through Sunday morning at Grand Park. The Relay is the biggest fund-raising event of the year for the American Cancer Society.

Thanks to a late rally in the final days, they raised $37,386 for the American Cancer Society for 2012. There were 211 participants and 23 teams. But while those figures were below the organization's goal of $50,000/300/30, they were happy the event ran smoothly and problem-free.

Team Christine was the largest single fund-raiser for the Aliso Viejo relay, with $8,070, according to the event's website. Cancer Crusaders was second with $6,811 raised, and Got Hope - TCS was third $4,358. Bob Stuart, Parker Stuart and Tiffany Graley were the top three individual fund-raisers.

Graley was also the guest speaker and gave a vivid talk about her life since being diagnosed with cancer at age 22.

Here are some photos taken throughout the day and evening. If you have photos post them yourself under "Upgrade Photos and Videos."