The event will be held at the Boksburg City Stadium, from 6pm on March 11, until 6am on March 12.
The event represents the hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, those facing cancer will be supported and one day cancer will be conquered.
Ayanda Ngcofe, Community Mobiliser Fund-raising Developer, East Rand, said the Relay For Life is a fun, overnight team event that raises awareness of cancer and raises much needed funds to fight the disease.
The event is volunteer-driven and community-owned.
“During Relay, teams of 10 to 15 friends, neighbours, families and co-workers commit to keeping at least one member walking the track at all times, because cancer never sleeps.
“Each team submits a commitment or registration fee,” she said.
Teams are then encouraged to raise funds to support Cansa’s unique integrated service to the public and all people affected by cancer in the region that the Relay event is being held.
“Our purpose is to lead the fight against cancer in South Africa by offering a unique and integrated service to the public and all those affected by cancer,” said Ngcofe.
“As a leading role-player in cancer control, the scientific findings and knowledge gained from our research are used to realign our health programme as well as focus our watchdog initiatives to the greater benefit of the public.”
The service also includes prevention and awareness campaigns, patient care and support in the form of Cansa Interim Homes in the main metropolitan areas including one hospitium (based in Polokwane) for out-of town cancer patients, support centres that offer stoma and lymphoedema clinics, medical equipment hire, toll-free line and support to children and their families affected by cancer through the CANSA TLC programme.
Teams set up camp around the track before the Cansa Relay For Life event opens with the moving Survivor’s Lap of Honour.
After sunset the candles are lit in the luminaria bags that encircle the track.
Throughout the evening and the next day, everyone enjoys entertainment, fun and camaraderie in a festival-like atmosphere.
How to get involved:
· Form a team for your Cansa Relay For Life event.
· Join the planning committee for your the event.
· Be a Cansa Relay For Life sponsor.
For more information contact Ayanda Ngcofe on 076 338 4318, 011 894 1417 or at angcofe@gmail.com, or Jeff Youngman on 084 681 6347 or at info@jemphotography.co.za.
