United fight against cancer

Spirit of Cranbourne teams members at last year's event, from left, Dakshi, Debbie, Melissa, Jeff, Judy and Bill.

By BRIDGET COOK

THE Casey community is being encouraged to help fight cancer, celebrate survivors and remember lost loved ones at the Cranbourne-Narre Relay for Life.
There’s still time to sign up for the event, which will be held at EG Allen Oval, Grant Street, Cranbourne, on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 November.
Almost 400 people, making up 30 teams, are already lined up to take part in the 20-hour relay event which raises money for the Cancer Council.
The event’s ‘Face of Hope’ and committee member Judy Davis said teams and individuals could sign up online until Friday or register on the day.
“The aim is to have someone walking from each team at all times,” she said.
“We walk rain, hail or shine and overnight.
“It’s about the message that cancer never stops for anything.
“Come down and have fun, whether you are taking part or just to watch and support.
“It is an emotional time, but people who have cancer still manage to smile so that’s what we aim to do.”
The event will kick off at 4pm on the Saturday with an official opening by Cranbourne North resident Tracey Ryan, who has terminal cancer.
The relay starts with a lap by survivors and carers, who will then enjoy an afternoon tea together.
Ms Davis encouraged any cancer survivors or carers in the community to come down for the opening lap and take part.
“That’s anybody who helped someone suffering from cancer – children, families and friends,” she said.
“Just let us know for catering purposes.”
At 8.30pm, there will be a candlelight ceremony, where people right messages on lanterns and then they are lit up around the track.
Entertainment will run throughout the night and there will food vendors available for the 20 hours.
The relay will end at noon on Sunday.
The cost to take part is $20 per person, and teams and individuals can sign up at http://www.relayforlife.org.au/ or find out more by emailing cranbournenarre@relayforlife.org.au.