The rainbow of ribbons designed to raise awareness of different cancers is behind the theme of this year’s Wollongong Relay for Life.
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The annual event is in its 18th year, and organisers are hoping to attract 1500 participants and raise $250,000 for cancer services and support in the region.
Cancer Council NSW southern region representative Grant Plecas believes the ‘colour for a cure’ theme may encourage more people to get on track this September 15-16.
“I think everyone can connect with the theme, and it can resonate with their own personal story,” he said. “They can dress up in, or decorate their campsite with, the colour of the awareness ribbon that reflects their, or their loved one’s, journey.”
The 2018 event patron, lawyer Graham Lancaster, is a long-time supporter of Cancer Council NSW.
“Cancer is something that affects most of us,” he said.
“My father had prostate cancer, and survived and a friend had bowel cancer, and survived – both through early intervention and treatment.
“My good friend Duncan Meadley got me involved in Relay for Life after he was diagnosed with gastroesophageal cancer, and in 2013 we took part in the Wollongong event together. Sadly he died in June 2014.
“It’s important to recognise, through the different ribbons, that cancer is not a single unbeatable disease – it’s a collective of different diseases and if gains are made in one, it can hopefully translate to others.”
Relay committee chair Stuart Barnes said while the cause was serious, the event was about fun and flexibility.
“Originally designed as a 24-hour event, it has expanded to welcome teams and individuals who want to participate over a shorter period,” he said.
Wollongong’s Relay for Life has raised over $3 million since inception. Proceeds from this year’s event will go towards programs such as Transport to Treatment and In Home Help; as well as information and support services.
Mr Plecas said the success of the annual fundraiser had also helped achieved advocacy wins such as the abolishment of chemotherapy co-payments and smoke-free dining, and helped contribute to world-class research.
For details visit www.relayforlife.com.au or ring 4223 0200.
