A cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence.

Survivor Howard Tolchin is testimony that cancer research and treatment does save lives.

Tolchin addressed American Cancer Society (ACS) Relay for Life participants and supporters at the noon opening ceremony April 29 in Fountain Park. The event continued until 10 p.m. with walkers participating in a variety of theme laps and activities.

In September 2009, Tolchin lost the use of the entire right side of his body. At first, doctors suspected a stroke. A series of tests found a tumor pressing on the left frontal lobe of his brain, which controls movement on the right side of the body.

He underwent chemotherapy, radiation and physical therapy to regain movement. Tolchin said he was “back to normal” in 2010.

The lymphoma returned in 2012 to two locations in his lower back. He had surgery, several rounds of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. After the treatment, lymphoma disappeared but a small cancerous tumor was detected in his lung. Surgery in January 2013 removed part of his left lung.

While Tolchin was fighting his battle, his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

Tolchin says he and his wife are both doing fine. He swims, plays racquetball and rides a bike.

“Keep positive and pay attention to your body,” was his message.

In his welcoming remarks, Councilperson Cecil Yates said one in six people die annually of cancer. The medical costs total more than $1.6 trillion. He said 30 to 50 percent of cancers can be prevented or stopped early by check-up examinations.

Relay for Life events occur in 5,200 communities in 27 countries to raise funds and awareness to help ACS.

A total of about 100 walkers participated individually and on organized teams that included Coral’s Crazy Kids, CVS Health, Fountain Hills High School Key Club and student government; Four Peaks Fighters, Noon Kiwanis K-Kids and Builders Club, North Chapel Church, Paul’s ACE Hardware, Sparkle the Magnificent, Team Cancer Crush, Team Hope, Team Hugo, Walk All Day, Cure Tomorrow and Walk by Faith.

The amount raised Saturday was $23,000 but donations will continue to be received until Aug. 31. Last year, the local event raised slightly more than $40,000, according to ACS staffer Jane Hahn.

Last year the Fountain Hills event won the national All American Award for year-over-year growth in number of participants and dollars raised.