The sun really shone on the Dempsey Challenge this year, allowing about 4,000 people to participate in the third annual fundraising effort that benefits the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing.

It was especially gratifying since the weather the weekend before featured rain, wind and cold that would have made many of the outdoor events far less fun.

With corporate sponsors covering expenses, the event was able to raise more than $1 million for the center, which is dedicated to improving the lives of cancer victims and survivors.

The American Cancer Society estimates 44 percent of men and about 38 percent of women will experience some form of cancer in their lifetimes. Roughly one in five women will die from the disease and about one in four men.

The result is that practically no family is left untouched by the power of cancer to disrupt lives and reorder priorities.

Cancer’s wide reach, and a great organizational effort, account for the event’s continuing success.

At the heart of that effort is actor Patrick Dempsey’s personal message. His mother was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 1997 and she has been treated twice again since.

He has dedicated himself to promoting the event, and the entire region has responded.

In addition to the thousands of people who participate in the walking, running and cycling events, thousands of others post signs and line the various routes to cheer on the participants.

It’s an emotional outpouring, and support seems to be growing by the year.

The entire community thanks Dempsey, his family, the corporate sponsors and the thousands of people who make this great community event possible.

rrhoades@sunjournal.com

The opinions expressed in this column reflect the views of the ownership and editorial board.

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