Most people know of someone that has suffered from cancer. In fact, one in three people in New Zealand are affected by cancer in some way. The Cancer Society of New Zealand Relay for Life is a 17 hour fun relay event to raise money for ongoing access to free services, information and support for those affected by cancer. Funds are raised when one registers a team to participate.
Participants of all ages and fitness levels are welcome, as are corporate groups, families, youth and services groups, sporting clubs etc. During the event, a wide range of festival-style entertainment is supplied to keep energy and motivation levels up. There are approximately 17 events held in different cities throughout New Zealand. Check here for the one nearest you.
Remember Loved Ones That Have Passed Away From Cancer
The Relay for Life is not just another fundraiser for another charity. Instead, it’s a time to share the memories and experiences of loved ones that have fought and lost their battle with cancer. The opening ceremony, candelight ceremony, and closing ceremony all pay tribute to the many lives lost in New Zealand from cancer every year.
I participated in the 2011 Wellington Relay for Life where there were 79 teams entered. Many team names reflected their loved ones such as Anne’s Runner Beans, Kamla’s Heroes, and Lee’s Legion. Many participants also wore T-shirts in memory of loved ones.
Celebrate Second Chances and Cancer Survivors
Nothing gives one a new lease on life like a brush with death. The Relay for Life is a great opportunity to get the whole family involved in celebrating second chances in a safe, fun, family environment. The opening lap of the relay is headed by cancer survivors and carers. Survivors wear red satin sashes and carers wear green.
The Wellington event that I attended had many toddlers and young children enjoying the festivities. To keep the young ones occupied, there is face painting, treasure hunts, and balloon animals. As darkness approaches, glow sticks and all manner of blinking light novelty toys start to appear. And when they are finally ready to sleep, many families stay overnight as the larger tented sites can be split into two, with airbeds providing welcome respite for a few hours.
A Focus on Health and Fitness as Entertainment
There is plenty of non-stop entertainment provided to keep everyone awake and motivated if they need it. There is a strong health and fitness theme to the schedule of entertainment at the Relay for Life events.
Participate in an open air zumba workout which will provide plenty of laughs for everyone involved. A trackside disco runs between 11pm and 2am in case you haven’t already spent all of your energy on the relay. And the wake up and warm up workout hosted at 6am is designed to infuse all participants with the energy required to see out the last few hours.
Cancer Society of New Zealand Relay for Life
Although I’ve not known anyone personally that has been affected by cancer, I felt honored to be included in such a fun, community event designed to bring awareness and support to an illness that kills so many New Zealanders. Play your part in supporting a great cause by organizing your own team or participating in the Cancer Society of New Zealand Relay for Life as a volunteer or sponsor.
Source:
- Cancer Society of New Zealand Relay for Life
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