The Canadian Cancer Society is asking people to start signing up to take part in this year’s Relay for Life event on June 4.
“Relay For Life wouldn’t happen each year without the community’s commitment to fight cancer,” said Danielle Gibson, Elk Valley Relay for Life coordinator. “We invite everyone in the community to come out and support your friends and family.”
Each year, participants from across Canada come together to celebrate the lives of those who have overcome cancer, remember loved ones lost, and empower individuals and communities to fight back against the disease.
“Every step taken and every dollar raised is invested in cancer research to improve the detection, diagnosis and treatment of cancer,” said Lori Stevenson, revenue development coordinator. “Together we continue to make a difference in the lives of Canadians fighting cancer.”
This year’s Elk Valley Relay for Life fundraiser will take place on June 4 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. at the Fernie Secondary School track.
“We are encouraging past participants, new participants, cancer survivors and anyone else in the community to get involved with the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay For Life,” said Gibson “We are looking for teams from all over the Elk Valley to participate. You can sign up as an individual, a team captain or as a team member. Everyone is welcome.”
The Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay For Life is a 12-hour, non-competitive event that involves teams of up to 15 who take turns walking or running around a track. The event opens with a Survivors’ Victory Lap, where cancer survivors kick-off the event by walking an inspirational first lap. The day is filled with fun events, live entertainment, and great food. Luminaries are lit during a moving ceremony at dusk. Their light pays tribute to loved ones and provides motivation and encouragement to participants all night long.
Each year more than 400 communities nationwide come together to fight back by supporting the largest cancer fundraiser in Canada. In British Columbia and the Yukon more than 50 communities participate.
Last year in B.C. and the Yukon, the Relay for Life raised more than $5 million for the Canadian Cancer Society, with over $80,000 being raised in the Elk Valley alone.
The Relay For Life planning committee would also like to remind everyone that April is Daffodil Month, providing additional or alternate options to join the fight against cancer. This spring, the Canadian Cancer Society is creating a movement across the province by asking British Columbians to be courageous and join the fight against cancer by making a donation and wearing the iconic daffodil pin. Pins are available in many locations throughout the Elk Valley.
To sign up a team for the Relay for Life or for more information go to www.relaybc.ca and choose ‘Elk Valley’.
If you are interested in volunteering for this great cause, or if you have any questions email elkvalleyrelay@bc.cancer.ca or call 250-423-3350.