Relay for Life Set for October 3rd
Organizers of the 13th edition of Relay for Life recently held their first information meeting and are wasting no time getting ready for the event set for the YaraCentre Friday October 3rd. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, Relay for Life gives the public a chance to “celebrate cancer survivors, remember and honour loved ones lost… and to fight back against all cancers.” Chair Dayna Smith-Short says for “lucky 13, we’re doing Viva Las Moose Jaw; we’re betting on a cure.” According to Smith- Short, “This will be the third year it’s at the YaraCentre. We will have entertainment throughout the evening, we’ll have games, maybe Elvis will show up. We may have some other impersonators. You never know who’ll show up.” The relay, which starts at 7:00 pm and ends 7:00 am the next morning, will feature a survivor walk, luminaries to honour loved ones lost and a relay walk of the track. Nine teams are already registered and another two joined at the meeting, but Smith Short says they are looking for more. Teams raise pledges and often hold other events to raise funds to fight cancer. Smith-Short, in her seventh year volunteering, says, “I do Relay for Life because I lost my Grandfather at age 14; it was the first significant loss I ever had in my life. Smith Short explained that others get involved because their lives are likewise touched by cancer, adding, “It’s about community, about supporting our friends, family and co-workers…you get out there, you get to hear the stories, it encourages you, it uplifts you.” According to Smith-Short, the sense of community is evident among participants. “We get all ages from those being pushed in a stroller to those with a walker. We encourage the public to come down see what it’s all about and to support our survivors.” Those wishing to get involved by registering a team, as a sponsor, donor or a volunteer are welcome to call Smith-Short at 306-693-4644 or 306-690-6534 or can also check out their Facebook page or their website at http://www.cancer.ca/en/events/sk/2014/relay-forlife-moose-jaw-2014/.