Cancer survivors get behind Relay For Life
WEXFORD cancer survivor Gay Murphy is hoping that people across the county will get behind this year’s Wexford Relay for Life.
The fundraiser will be held in Pairc Charman on July 14 and 15 and is always a very positive and inspiring event.
Speaking at the national launch last week Gay, who is chairperson of the Wexford Relay for Life, said she got involved with Relay for Life to help support others facing cancer having being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014.
‘I got involved because I wanted to give something back to an organisation who provides such great support and help to so many people at what can be a challenging time in their lives. I love the way Relay brings the whole community together in a festival type atmosphere, full of fun, over 24 hours. It also provides a space where there is no negativity and where people are not afraid to tackle the topic of cancer head on.’
Relay For Life is a 24-hour event that brings the community together to celebrate the lives of cancer survivors, remember those lost to the disease and fight back by increasing knowledge of cancer and raising money to fund vital research and services of the Irish Cancer Society.
2FM DJ Louise McSharry who is also a cancer survivor helped to launch this year’s events which are spearheaded by the Irish Cancer Society.
Louise said: ‘ Being diagnosed with cancer at the age of 31 was a huge shock. Like most people I never expected cancer to affect me. Very quickly I realised that cancer knows no boundaries – it can happen to anyone at any time. That’s why it’s so important that we come together at a community level to raise awareness and show support.
‘Here in Wexford a fantastic committee host Relay For Life to celebrate, remember and fight back. Cancer can be extremely difficult, but knowing your local community is behind you is uplifting, and that’s what Relay For Life is all about.’
Averil Power, Chief Executive of the Irish Cancer Society said: ‘ There are over 165,000 people in Ireland living with and beyond cancer, and by 2020, one in two people will receive a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. Relay For Life brings communities together in a very powerful way to fight against an illness that can make a person feel so alone. Get involved in your local Relay and join the fight back against cancer.’
Anyone is welcome to get involved in Relay for Life. For more information see www.cancer.ie/relayforlife.