"Together: Strong." This motto propelled the first ever Squamish Relay for Life cancer research fundraiser into surpassing expectations that had already been deemed high.
"We hoped to raise $60,000 this year," said Squamish Relay for Life co-ordinator Tamsyn Morote, but at the end of the 12-hour event, 21 relay teams had amassed $75,000.
The residents, businesses and performers worked together for the unique fundraising event that celebrated cancer survival and shared hope for those affected by the disease."What a community," said Morote. "Without teams and participants we would not have a Relay, they raised for months, some teams doing extra things such as garage sales and restaurant fundraisers to make more money. The dedication and enthusiasm of the participants and volunteers was incredible."
The Relay began with a cancer survivors' lap of the Brennan Park Leisure Centre track, followed by the participants' opening lap led by the Black Tusk Caledonia Pipe Band. And at dusk, a candlelight luminary ceremony was held to honour loved ones who have had cancer. Participants who had solicited sponsorship walked, jogged or strolled around the track during the 12-hour relay.
Numerous entertainers played through the night to keep relay teams energized. Bluesberry Jam, Leanne Lamour, The Jocelyn Trio, The Blue Sparks, Susan Holden, Pissed Ninnies and Norman Foote performed on staging provided by Rocky Mountains Production Services. Massage, physiotherapy and chiropractic teams donated time to add a wellness area to the event and the Welh Tima Kexwusem Native Dance Group performed a healing dance at a survivors reception.
Morote had too many highlights to name.
"Teams bonding with co-workers, playing games, chatting, doing some yoga," she said. "The closing lap and seeing that all the teams had stayed all night. We all walked the last lap together just before the closing ceremonies."
This first Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life occurred in Coquitlam in 1992 with 13 teams raising $30,000, and Squamish can now count itself among the communities across Canada that hold the annual event.
"Look out for us in the fall when we will start planning next year's Relay For Life," said Morote. If anyone is interested in starting a team next year or volunteering call 604 898 1012 or email [email protected].
