Step up to fight cancer - register a 'Relay for Life' team

Many of us have been touched by cancer and on June 7, you can make a difference by simply putting one foot in front of the other. That's the concept behind Relay for Life, a 12-hour spirited fundraising event.

"Relay for Life is a poignant way to remember those who have fought cancer, celebrate battles won and fight back by raising important funds," says Lori Faggiani, Senior Development Officer of Events at University Hospitals Kingston Foundation (UHKF).

The event is collaboration once again between UHKF, Kingston General Hospital and the Canadian Cancer Society to support the Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario. The overnight relay gets underway at 7p.m. and goes to 7 a.m., with teams of 10 or more taking turns walking, running or strolling around the track at the Royal Military College. 

Cancer survivors walk the Survivor's Victory Lap and at dusk a touching Luminary Ceremony takes place with candles lit around the track. 

"To keep participants going, there will be entertainment, activities and food from Beavertails and Western Cut Southern Style BBQ," says Faggiani. 

"Last year, a handful of KGH-designated teams braved the rain to play a part in helping raise nearly $13,000 for our Cancer Centre," says Jim Flett, KGH's Chief Operating Officer. "By donating to teams with a KGH or UHKF affiliation, you can ensure that every dollar raised is donated back to KGH's Cancer Centre."

To get more teams on the track, Flett has issued a challenge. "We'd love to see 10 teams of 10 register as a KGH-affiliated team. We already have six teams and you could be the one to take us over our goal!"

Rising to that challenge already is 'Team Gridlock'. Comprised of staff from the OR, Post-Anesthesia Care Unit and Same Day Admission Clinic, the enthusiastic bunch are aiming for 25 members and a $5,000 fundraising goal.

"We are affected by the cancer patients who come through our doors every day. We always want to do more and this is a way we can," says team captain Laurie Thomas. "Plus, it's a great team-building exercise."

To register check out the 'Relay for Life' website here.