Cancer Society Nelson Tasman’s largest fundraiser is laced up to return to its true form after a six-year hiatus.
The biannual Relay for Life fundraiser is held throughout New Zealand by regional Cancer Society branches to raise funds for their local organisation, and to celebrate cancer survivors and the volunteers who support patients during cancer treatment.
Centre manager for Cancer Society Nelson Tasman, Michelle Hunt, says the fundraiser was last held in Nelson in 2018, but it was cancelled in 2020 due to Covid-19 restrictions.
She says a virtual fundraiser was held in 2022.
Michelle says this year’s event will circuit at the Richmond A&P Showgrounds from 4pm on 16 March to 8am on 17 March, and she encourages the community to rally team members to support the cause.
“In previous years it’s always wonderfully supported by our community… we get between 600 and 800 people and we raise about $100,000, so we’re hoping to have the same number again this time,” she says.
“Most teams have 10 people… and all teams need to have somebody walking on the track at all times.
“People can camp overnight inside the race track, and we’ve also got different entertainment throughout the event.”
Michelle says the fundraiser opens with the survivors and carers lap to celebrating those who have fought against cancer, before a candlelight ceremony later in the evening to remember those who have lost their lives to cancer.
She says the event’s overnight timeline gives participants the opportunity to appreciate that cancer can be a “dark time” and when the sun rises the following morning it symbolises light and hope on the other side.
Michelle says relay registrations cost $20 per person, which covers campsite, entertainment and breakfast costs, and must be submitted by 10 March.
She says registered teams have an online platform for Cancer Society Nelson Tasman donations.
To register, go here or email info@cancernelson.org.nz
