The torrent of water that hit southern Alberta Friday June 21 was unable to dampen the spirits of the 9 teams participating in the Canadian Cancer Relay for Life held in Chestermere. Fight Back, Celebrate and Remember were the themes of this festive, touching and inspirational night.
In a plan B turn of events the outdoor event was moved inside, with one of the rinks being transformed into a relay lap outlined with paper luminaries and with the participants tents and camps set up within the center of the floor. Mara Jensen, event chair said the planning committee and volunteers were able to rally together last moment to make the relocation possible.
The 12 hour family friendly relay ran from 7 pm to 7 am, with many special activities and guests along the way. The MPP Room where a supper was held was transformed into a castle hall with some participants dressing the part of Medieval characters.
The evening started off with a tribute to the many cancer survivors and their spouses whose presence at the event was a testament to winning the battle. Appetizers and music were provided in this celebration of life.
Having the relay through the night is based on the premise that cancer doesn’t sleep. At opening ceremonies the participants were thanked and encouraged by Wildrose MLA Bruce McAllister, Mayor Patricia Matthews, Canadian Cancer Revenue Development Coordinator Tina Buikema, Board Volunteer Connie McVitt and Event Chair Maren Jensen.
Jensen participated in the event last year and took a different direction this year acting as Event Chair and volunteer Organizer.
The Chestermere High School Band marched around the track leading the first group of Cancer Survivors followed by Caregivers. Finishing up the ceremonial walk were the nine teams. This official start meant that the teams had to have at least one walker on the track at all times till the finish of the event.
Music was provided throughout the night to keep up the spirits of the walkers. Live performances included Gypsy and the Rose, the Chestermere Sound Waves, Cimone Rajan, Volume Therapy, Scarlett Fire and Kylie Sitter. A late night lunch pizza was provided by Little Caesars’ Pizza.
At 10:30 a special lighting of the luminaries was held. The rink was aglow with hundreds of paper lanterns flickering in memory of lost family and friends as well as a tribute to those battling or conquering the disease.
A “Fight for the Cure” shadow martial arts sequence at midnight by Rathe Mokelky encouraged the walkers while sister Candie Schmidt highlighted positive advancements made in the war against cancer. Sensei Mokelky who lives downtown Calgary was able to put his own troubles aside to join the event.
By early morning the teams were tired but still on their feet. “The kids did well, getting into the candy may have given them a boost, “laughed Jensen.
This year marks the 75 anniversary of the Canadian Cancer Society. To honor this year a special contest was held with many great prizes. The team prize was round flight tickets and 2 night’s accommodation for up to 10 team members to any Relay for Life Event in 2014 anywhere Air Canada flies in continental North America. Individual prizes included via rail vouchers for 2, Canon t5i digital cameras, $750 gift cards from JACOB fashion stores, Blackberry Play Books and $100 gift cards from Laura Women’s Wear Stores.
Buikema said that funds raised by the Canadian Cancer Society support a broad spectrum of needs aimed at improving the quality of life. It is not selective to just one of the 202 types of cancer.
“Support can be given through such avenues as research or through our advocacy campaigns which are unique preventative programs such as banning underage tanning and promoting pesticide free playgrounds,” she said.
Interesting statistic highlighted at the event showed hope in winning the war against cancer. Since 1950 cancer deaths of children have dropped by 50%. Progress since the 1940s show that the survival rate has increased by 35%. It’s still not too late to donate to the relay with pledges being accepted until November of 2013. Check out the Relay website at www.RelayforLife.ca for more details. Or if you have the inkling you can jump on board for next year’s event.
