THUNDER BAY – Melissa Ervin admits she was a little nervous heading into last year’s Relay for Life.
After taking time off to recharge the event’s batteries, Ervin said they weren’t sure what to expect, from a turnout and fundraising perspective.
The result exceeded just about all expectations, said Ervin, the event co-chair.
“It was a huge success,” Ervin said on Tuesday.
“Again, last-minute Thunder Bay pulled through. I think in the last four days, Thunder Bay raised about $30,000 to $40,000. Announcing that number at Relay was heartwarming. And that’s why we do it. It’s the passion, knowing everyone came together at the last minute to surpass our goal by $30,000 to $40,000.”
Long a staple of the fundraising calendar, Relay for Life is an effort that strikes a chord with just about everyone, given there aren’t many people who haven’t been affected by cancer or the work of the Canadian Cancer Society.
It’s the reason the organization’s local branch is planning to return again in 2020, with the goal of being bigger and better this time around.
“Last year we had 31 teams sign up. This year we’re hoping for at least 50 teams and we have different little incentives for them. We have a team VIP incentive. If you sign up by April 1 you have a chance to win a VIP experience, which includes a tent and we’re going to have a little bit of swag in there for you,” Ervin said.
“There will be some patio furniture and maybe some snacks or goodies and a few other incentives for participants.”
Ervin said Relay for Life is more than just raising money. It’s also a chance for survivors to reflect on their cancer journey, and for those who have lost loved ones to remember them fondly, while helping those currently dealing with the disease find hope.
During the event, participants light luminary candles as a mark of tribute.
“They’re in memory of somebody, whether they’re dealing with cancer right now, and it’s a very special ceremony for people because that’s their time to reflect on if they’re living with cancer,” Ervin said. “That’s the biggest thing. You can live with cancer and still have a life.”
Relay for Life will take place at the Legion Track on June 6.
“We are doing it a bit earlier because for a lot of people it was a little bit chilly last year. So it’s from 3 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The luminary ceremony will be our last thing before the event ends, but you still have part of the night to come out and have a lot of fun, a barbecue and activities. And then maybe some more children can come and enjoy it as well,” Ervin said.
To sign up or donate, or for more information, visit the Canadian Cancer Society’s website.
