Stettler raised over $170,000 in the second annual Relay for Life to help fight cancer with the Canadian Cancer Society last Friday night, June 18 and 19.
“I know we’ll surpass $170,000,” said Brenda Esquirol who co-chairs the organizing committee.
During the event, a figure of $168,000 was announced although an official final total is expected to be confirmed by the end of this week, she said.
“We had 42 teams and almost 450 participants registered and close to 100 volunteers.”
Last year, $175,000 was raised with 47 teams and 502 participants – from toddlers to people in their 90s – in the event at the track at William E. Hay Composite High School.
Relay for Life is a 12-hour overnight non-competitive event that involves teams of 10 people who take turns walking or running around the track.
“We relay because we desperately want to put an end to all cancers,” said Esquirol.
To achieve its mission, the Canadian Cancer Society raises funds to fight all 200-plus kinds of cancer.
“Cancer is not who we are, it does not define us, but it all owes us to see our lives in a different light,” said Ivy Bredy who co-chaired the event.
“Cherish the small moments, remember the important things and smile as we look towards brighter things.
To kick off the evening, 46 survivors attended the banquet and 80 survivors and caregivers walked in the survivors’ lap.
During an emotional ceremony at dusk, 986 luminaries were lit to pay tribute to loved ones who suffered or died of cancer.
Several dignitaries expressed the determination to beat cancer.
“The most important thing to remember is that cancer can be beaten,” said Barb Belisle of the Canadian Cancer Society, as she was one of several people to speak during the opening ceremonies.
“Together, we will fight cancer.”
Those words were shared by local municipal leaders.
“Your commitment to combat this devastating disease is highly commended,” said County of Stettler Acting Reeve Les Stulberg.
Despite the death and tragedy of cancer, an event such as this draws families and people together.
“This event truly unites the community as a whole, with all generations from the very young to seniors,” said Town of Stettler Mayor Dick Richards.
“You bring new meaning to the phrase of ‘Heart of Alberta’.”
“It’s an opportunity to get together with family, friends, and fellow employees and it grows the spirit,” said honourary chairman Kevin Stewart.
Next year’s Relay for Life in Stettler is set for June 17.
