The Mower County Relay for Life has surpassed its fundraising goal and is charging toward $100,000 — a remarkable feat during a recession, organizers said.

Donations, pledges, luminary sales and fundraisers have collected $98,797 so far for the American Cancer Society, reported Linda Baier, chairwoman for the Mower County Relay for Life. The goal the ACS set for Mower County was $95,000. It is the largest amount the county has ever raised.

“At $95,000, with the economy the way it’s been, I didn’t think there was any way we would reach that goal,” Baier admitted. “Needless to say, I think all of us are just extremely happy. It’s really unbelievable, but on the other hand, I think cancer affects everybody.”

The event itself was held Saturday, Aug. 1 at Mill Pond. Although pledges have been tallied and fundraisers wrapped up, donations can still be collected through Aug. 31. Baier said there was a variety of fundraisers this year, from car washes to bake sales to poker tournaments.

In 2008, the Relay for Life raised $76,000, beating its goal by $12,000. About 30 teams signed up this time, a few more than last year, Baier said.

“Participants or donors — it’s their way of fighting back,” she said. “There’s only so much you can do for the patient; this is just another way of fighting back.”

The Mower County Relay for Life has 11 days until their fundraising deadline. Baier said she’s “not sure” if they can reach the six-figure mark.

“I think we’ve tapped into everything we know of as a committee,” she said, adding, “I know there’s families out there who are being touched by this every day.”

To donate to the Mower County Relay for Life, write checks to the American Cancer Society and mail them to: Linda Baier, 814 Eighth Ave. S.E. Austin, MN 55912.