Moses Lake is home to many people who want to help others, near and far. There are two great events this weekend that are designed to do just that. The Blacktop Bash to support cystic fibrosis patients and families, and the Relay for Life event for cancer research are prime examples.

Liz Porter at Moses Pointe is coordinating the Blacktop Bash event on Saturday. The project is near and dear to her family because of her niece’s diagnosis with cystic fibrosis at just 3 weeks old. The event is in its fourth year and boasted a Caribbean theme last year. Saturday’s event features live music from the Seattle Band Uncle Rico’s Revenge, a slider buffet and craft beer tasting.

Treatment for cystic fibrosis has improved greatly over the years, increasing survival for patients by several years. So instead of people only living into their teens, some are surviving much longer as they reach their 30s or 40s, Porter told the Columbia Basin Herald earlier this week. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that causes lung infections and affects one’s ability to breathe as the condition progresses, according to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation website.

For more information about tickets to the Blacktop Bash, please visit www.mosespointe.com.

Another big event, Moses Lake’s Relay for Life, kicks off at 6 p.m. Friday at the Moses Lake High School track. The event ends at 6 a.m. Saturday morning, 13 hours later.

For Relay for Life, families, friends and businesses team up to walk laps and raise money for cancer research. I’ve attended and walked laps during a past Relay as part of the Herald’s team. It’s a festive time, but somber too because cancer has touched so many lives. Luminarias labeled in honor of those claimed by cancer line the edge of the track. For more information about taking part, please visit www.relayforlife.org.

Both events, organized by locals, have a big reach outside the Columbia Basin. Helping others afflicted with cystic fibrosis and cancer connects us with people who may have tips to better manage both diseases. At the very least, it’s a good reminder to know we’re not alone during tough times. We’re part of a great community that’s working to save lives and raise awareness about serious illness.

Lynne Lynch is managing editor of the Columbia Basin Herald. She can be reached via email, editor@columbiabasinherald.com.