IF you want to do something real for cancer sufferers get your tent and your torch and get a team together for the Tweed Valley Relay for Life.

This weekend teams of all ages will take turns to walk around Bridge Club Park on Recreation St, paying tribute to all those affected by cancer.

The funds raised go towards research, education and support programs.

So far Tweed Valley teams have raised nearly $25,000 with a goal to raise $80,000 in total.

2012 Relay for Life Ambassador Jesse Cooper was diagnosed at age 8 and then again last year at age 15.

"Every year as a cancer survivor is magic," Mr Cooper said.

"I'm relaying to spread awareness about cancer and to raise funds for local support services."

Far North Coast Regional programs coordinator Rhian Paton-Kelly said the event should spread a message of hope and support and awareness about preventable cancers.

"Relay is about the community coming together to show their support for people who have been diagnosed with cancer, and their families," Ms Paton-Kelly said.

"It also aims to promote ways to prevent cancer which is extremely important considering two thirds of cancer diagnoses are preventable through diet, exercise and not smoking."

The Cancer Council NSW plans to launch an information centre at the Tweed Hospital later this year to give free and confidential information to cancer patients and their families.

To get involved phone 02 6627 0300.