Editor: On March 17, 1994 I lost my mom to cancer.
On Dec. 4, 2005 I lost my dad to it as well.
I had been to the Canadian Cancer Society Relay for Life at McLeod Park in Langley as a bystander, but after losing both of my parents I knew that I could no longer stand by as loved ones were stolen from me by this horrible disease.
I joined a relay team in 2009 and it’s the best thing I’ve ever done. It’s an incredible night that is inspirational, emotional and yet it’s like a fun-filled festival at the same time.
There are friends and family, tons of food, decorated tents, music and games and a park filled with loving and caring people.
I found the event to be spectacular as a bystander, but being on a team, is amazing. Not only am I honouring and paying tribute to my parents but I am doing my part to raise money to fight cancer.
In 2012, my husband faced colon cancer and I am delighted to say he beat it. And the reason he did is because of events like the Relay for Life where money is raised for treatments to beat all cancers. If you’ve ever thought that you would love to be involved in a community event –this is a great event to join. Create a team as small or large as you want.
It can be you and one friend, a neighbourhood, volunteer or support group. It can be family, co-workers, or cancer survivors.
Everyone is welcome and it’s so easy. You raise money through donations — it could be a self-donation — and on the evening of the event you arrive, set up your home base and walk laps around the track with a group of people who are all there to fight cancer.
Dress in black, dress in hot pink, dress in costume, dress in pyjamas — it doesn’t matter what you wear, just register your team and be there on June 8 at Langley’s McLeod Park on 56 Avenue and 216 Street. It’s that easy. You can register on line at Relay for Life.
If you need more information, contact Miranda Tracy at 604-583-2228 ext 8314 or email: miranda.tracy@bc.cancer. Google Relay for Life Langley 2018 or check out their Facebook page. This year’s event is Friday June 8 from 6 pm to midnight.
It’s an incredible experience and I know if you sign up, you’ll love it as much as I do.
If you can’t form a team this year, think about making a donation, experience the evening and come and walk a few laps and seriously think about creating a team for June 2019.
Kari Medos,
Team Captain,
The Gallery, Relay for Life