The CANSA Relay for Life West Rand recently celebrated its eighth year when the memorable occasion was held at Monument High School in Krugersdorp.
“The fun, 12 hour overnight event aimed at raising awareness about cancer and raise funds for the fight against cancer, is volunteer driven and community owned,” said Amanda Roestoff, CANSA Relay for Life Staff Partner of the CANSA Western Gauteng Care Centre.
The fundraising event is part of an international movement that unites cancer survivors and communities that care about them.
This year’s event formed part of our 10 year Celebration nationally. To mark the special occasion the committee embarked on a campaign to create awareness amongst youth with the unique theme – The Movies,” Roestoff said.
Almost 100 teams- mostly high and primary schools – children and teachers alike, and several other organisation and individuals joined the fight against cancer with 150 cancer survivors in attendance.
More than 1500 people gather at the school to experience the heartfelt survivors lap, honour cancer survivors and their caregivers.
After sunset, tribute was paid in a very emotive Luminaria Ceremony by lighting candles inside Luminaria bags which encircled the track. These Luminaria bags are dedicated to those who have lost their battle against cancer.
“There was a sense of camaraderie and a festival like atmosphere with live entertainment through the night, whilst teams camped out on the schools rugby field. Many vendors catered for everyone’s need and Run Walk for Life Krugersdorp even offered massages for the sore muscles,” Roestoff said.
We have had positive feedback from schools and participants, including cancer survivors who were treated to a free meal and gift packages. We want to thank each and every sponsor, school, teacher, individual, businesses , clubs and vendors who contributed to making this year’s event a huge success,” Roestoff said
Teams and individuals were recognised for their support, initiative and endurance.
Trophies and certificates were handed to the following teams/individuals:
The award for the Most Dedicated Relayer went to Andre Atkins from Mindalore, Krugersdorp who did several kilometres around the track. Del-Mari van Zyl, a gr.11 pupil from Monument High School and Louis Kruger, a cancer survivor and committee member shared two trophies – Best fundraising and Most Team entries.
Van Zyl was the drive behind encouraging almost 40 classes from the school to each enter a team and generate almost R52 000 by her efforts.
The accolade for the best dressed team went to team dressed as “the Turtles”. The Dream Team was the most creative and they also had the most survivors in their team. The trophy for the Overall Best team went to “Super Shreks”.
As the committee takes a breather after months of hard work and planning, we look forward to ensure a bigger fundraiser next year,” Roestoff said.
More than R150 000 was raised in this event. Funding will be generated to the care and support of cancer patients.
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