Relay for Life

Last year I captained a team for the first time in the Canadian Cancer Society's Relay for Life. Quite a number of years ago I had the opportunity to participate on a friend's team and remembered it fondly. Last year I was moved by my family's personal experiences with cancer to start up my own team to collectively raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society. I was so glad I did - it was a really great night. Although I was knackered by the end of the night (I was around 7 months preggo at the time) it was so worth it.


It's amazing...the sense of community that was there. We didn't know anyone outside of our own little group, yet we had much in common with the numerous participants. All of us, in some way or another, had been touched by cancer. There were many cancer survivors present who completed the first lap around the field while the rest of us watched. Tears came to my eyes when I saw the little children who marched around, proud and strong, already having made it through life and death battles they shouldn't have had to fight at such tender ages. But cancer isn't discriminatory - it attacks all races and colours, ages, and genders. And unfortunately, not all cancer patients make it through the fight. At dusk out on the field, luminaries were lit and glowed bright and strong - some honouring precious loved ones who have gone on before us.



That's why the Relay for Life is an important event. It's not just because it raises funds in support of the vital fight against cancer. It's because no matter who you are and how you've been affected by cancer, it's nice to know that people care - and so many do! To me, the Relay is also about spending an evening with a huge extended family connected by the invisible ties of similar experiences with loss and survival.

So, this year I have set up a team again. My family will be out there (Annika included) marching around. We will be there to hear stories of survival. We will also remember, with so much love, a wonderful woman who will never be forgotten.


I'll probably be posting about the relay from time to time. If you feel you are able to contribute to this year's Relay and pledge me in this year's walk, I would greatly appreciate it! If you're interested in coming out and participating in the walk, please let me know. There are all sorts of activities that go on all night (including little massage sessions, movies, free coffee/hot chocolate) and it's really a great night.


Here's the link to my Relay page if you're interested.
Relay For Life | Alberta/NWT | Canadian Cancer Society:
Have a great weekend all - Happy Friday!!
Penny