The Relay for Life event in Centennial Park is a fun, family event for many, but it’s also an important day for people to cheer on those battling the disease or recognize a cancer survivor or a lost loved one.
Perhaps, most importantly, it raises funds for research and prevention activities by the Canadian Cancer Society.
Local Relay for Life leadership chair Alaina Fryer says teams have been slower than usual to sign on this year, and this puts the event at risk.
While some have called expressing their intent to put a team together, many haven’t yet registered, she explains.
“We need more to step up and put together a team. Without the teams to fundraise, we would not have a relay.”
The relay is planned for Centennial Park on June 9 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
One change this year is the relay teams won’t have as many scheduled activities keeping them so busy, as Fryer explains organizers don’t want to restrict their time.
“People coming out to show support is what we need. Even if you raise $20, it supports the cause.”
This year’s all-volunteer relay is otherwise shaping up for a great family day, she notes, and includes a few new twists to the usual fun, entertainment and games.
Rob Fry will once again provide music and entertainment, including the Cariboo Idols, and other groups and bands yet to be confirmed, but are under discussion.
Tom McIntosh of Lake of the Trees Bible Camp will once again handle fun-filled children’s activities.
Fryer says the key aspects, such as the luminary ceremony and the survivor’s lap, will continue to recognize the people who deal or have dealt with cancer.
Volunteers to help with a variety of tasks are always needed, she explains.
This assistance ranges from supervising children’s activities and helping serve at the
food booth to setting up the luminaries (candle bags) and helping with the big tents.
“They don’t need to stay for the whole day; they can come for an hour.”
Team registration is easy, Fryer notes, whether done online at www.relaybc.ca or by filling out a form at Donex Pharmacy & Department Store.
For information on registration, call Sharmaine Grimes at 250-791-6664.