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The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) reminds citizens to mark the calendar for the 16th annual CANSA Relay For Life, Gqeberha. Taking place on Saturday, 16 March from 6:00pm to 6:00am on Sunday, 17 March 2024, at the Fairview Sports Centre in Willow Road, Gqeberha, it aims to bring together the community in a display of unity and hope in the fight against cancer.
In a media statement CANSA emphasised, CANSA Relay For Life is an impactful, team experience, which mobilises cancer survivors and the community to stand together in the fight against cancer. It’s also an opportunity to remember loved ones that have passed away from cancer and to raise funds for the fight against cancer. The theme for this year is ‘Step Up to Conquer Cancer - Colours of Hope.
Freda Botha, CANSA Relay For Life, Gqeberha Volunteer Chairperson and cancer survivor, says, “It’s terrific that we can host this inspiring event each year. It opens with a heartfelt Survivors’ Lap, to celebrate cancer survivors. This is followed by a Caregivers lap to recognise those who help cancer patients and loved ones in their journey. After sunset, tribute is paid in a very emotive Luminaria Ceremony (candle lighting) by lighting candles inside luminaria bags which encircle the track. These luminaria bags are dedicated to remembering those who have been lost to cancer, and honour those living with cancer today.”
Luminaria bags are sold prior and at the CANSA Relay For Life event.
Family members or friends can also decorate bags, the ‘Candle Lighting’ bag is available at the Cancer Care Centre (R10 each). And day visitors are welcome to attend at R80 for adults, (cut-off time is midnight).
“At the heart of Relay is the opportunity to enter teams and get involved with us by creating awareness about cancer. We’re excited to see how Teams are going to use the colours of hope to showcase their spirit,” adds Botha.
Throughout the event, there is entertainment. Team members are free to socialise, picnic, play games, dance, and participate in lots of fun activities. Teams are required to pay a commitment fee of R800 per team and commit to raising additional funds to help CANSA enable research, reduce the risk of cancer through education and health awareness while also providing care and support to those affected by cancer. Further, teams (10-15 friends, neighbours, families, and co-workers) commit to always having at least one team member walking around the track for 12 hours, in a fun and informal way as cancer never sleeps. To enter a team, contact Recruitment Chair, Penny Olwage on 082 459 3387 / pennyolwage@yahoo.com.
Funds raised are used to educate communities as well as providing care and support initiatives provided by CANSA. The service extends to helping people affected by cancer through education, tele counselling, screening, promoting early detection, counselling, support groups, wigs, prostheses, medical equipment hire, home-based care and assistance with wound care and stoma clinics.
“Other ways to support the cause is to donate at the event or lend a hand by volunteering services and time. We welcome any corporate sponsors and workplaces who can contribute by donating or registering teams. Come and join the fun, cheer the Survivors and Caregivers, enjoy the entertainment, and experience the inspiring atmosphere,” concludes Botha.
