To some four-year-olds, learning to write their name is an accomplishment. Remembering to say please and thank you is cause for congratulations. A whole night passed without wetting the bed prompts high-fives all around.
Not to diminish these achievements, but a Penetanguishene event that just turned four years old pulled off a feat between 7 p.m. June 12 and 7 a.m. June 13 that tops them all.
The local Canadian Cancer Society Relay for Life raised more than $82,000 and attracted 55 teams, with an average of about 10 participants on each team. The monetary total easily exceeded organizers’ goal of $74,000.
“Fantastic,” was organizer Kelly Earle’s one-word description of the result.
For 12 hours, teams of local walkers circled the paths at Penetanguishene’s Waterfront Park, much of that time enveloped in the glow provided by 989 luminaries lining the route.
Every step taken by the men, women and children participating in this inspirational event was a tribute to those who have lost their fight against cancer, as well as those who continue the struggle. This point is emphasized by the relay’s motto: Celebrate, Remember and Fight Back!
On Friday evening, the survivors’ lap – when people who have beaten cancer, or are struggling against the disease, walk an honorary first loop of the route – brought tears to the eyes of many watching and applauding. Earle said the 10 p.m. luminary ceremony had a similar effect.
Not that the Relay for Life is all sombreness and tears. From cheekily named teams to matching costumes and foot-stomping music, participants never lose sight of the fact this event is also a celebration.
And there’s a lot to celebrate. Since its inception in 2006, local participants have brought in an amazing $275,000 to help battle cancer of all types.
For a region with a small population such as ours, this is phenomenal, an emphatic testament to the dedication of volunteers, supporters and participants.