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Relay for Life makes a difference

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You know how sometimes you do something that makes you very proud? One of these times for me was being the co-ordinator of the very first Relay For Life in my community.

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In 2003 it was an event in its infancy for the Canadian Cancer Society and it was embraced with unexpected enthusiasm. Not knowing what to expect, we were astonished at the response of teams of ten who pitched tents and gathered supporters who took turns walking the track throughout the night. We witnessed the Survivor’s Victory Lap, which pays tribute to those who have experienced cancer, and the very moving Luminary Ceremony where candles are lit in honour and in memory of loved ones with cancer.

For 17 years Relay For Life has united our community with others across Canada who celebrate those who live with and are moving beyond cancer.

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Little did we know that our event would continue to be part of a global movement to end cancer – now active in 29 countries and 6,000 communities worldwide. Funds raised through Relay For Life support ground-breaking research into more than 100 types of cancer, services that help people with cancer and their families, and advocacy with governments and agencies on important cancer-related issues.

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Although still held in June, what used to be a 12-hour overnight event is now six-hours from 6 p.m. to midnight. However – many things have remained the same. Family, friends and coworkers still join together as a team and take turns walking around the track. There continues to be food, entertainment and activities. Over the years we’ve lived through warm nights, rain, storms – and even a tornado warning a few years ago. We’ve worn raincoats and parkas and running gear and plastic bags to stay warm and dry. We’ve walked hundreds of combined miles but even better, have shared hundreds of heartfelt stories. We’ve been impressed with the number of young people who have chosen to make a difference by joining a Relay For Life team.

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I can’t tell you which of the two special components are the most meaningful for me – the Survivor’s Victory Lap or the Luminary Ceremony. Walking in the Survivor’s lap was a life-changing event which continues to have impact every year. I became so much a part of a much larger community and felt compelled to give back however I could. There is nothing quite like being cheered on by enthusiastic participants and sharing a moment of gratitude with other cancer survivors. We all had different cancers and treatments but we all share the same appreciation for what the Canadian Cancer Society is doing in terms of research, as well as for support programs and services that helped us.

As for the Luminary Ceremony – it always brings memories and tears. Since that very first Relay, I have lost three very special relatives and some close friends but have also celebrated the end of treatment and improved quality of life with many, many others. Once the candles are lit at night and we walk the track it gives us the opportunity to reflect on how, in spite of health challenges, we are incredibly lucky to be surrounded by those who care.

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We remember and fight back together.

You are bigger than cancer. Our community is bigger than cancer. We work collectively with people united by the same goals – to create a world where no Canadian fears cancer. We are a force-for-life as we help ourselves and other people with cancer live more fully by participating in Relay For Life.

Together we make a difference.

To find out more about Relay For Life or to register for a Relay For Life event near you, log onto relayforlife.ca. For other information related to cancer, please call 1-888-939-3333, visit the website at www.cancer.ca, or call the Canadian Cancer Society Community Office.

Cathy Telfer is an information officer with the Canadian Cancer Society

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