Although the Cansa Relay for Life captains meeting held on Wednesday started with discussions on a negative topic, the meeting concluded on positive note with the committee rearing to go for the 24-hour community event, which will be held on September 6 and 7.
Event Chairperson Anil Sookraj updated those present about the advice he had sought regarding the letters in the Estcourt News, questioning the service delivery and support group in Estcourt.
He said that he was contemplating stepping down as the Chairperson as it was clear that the writer was targeting him.
“If there are no takers, we will close up the support group and after this year’s Relay there will be no more Relays, which is very sad as this is a global event and is recognised in different parts of the world,” said Mr Sookraj.
He added that he had made contact with the Press Ombudsman who had imparted advice about what steps he could take should the letters become defamatory and bring a person into disrepute.
A Cansa epresentative from the Sustainability Division addressed the meeting next and from the outset praised everyone present for the support they are giving to the Relay and Mr Sookraj.
“If we stop the Relay, people will be affected in a bad way, we have to honour our survivors through the Relay and bring hope to those with cancer,” she said.
A representative from Cansa Pietermaritzburg also motivated the Relay Committee, urging them to see the importance of the Relay.
He said that locals will be seeing more of Cansa as screenings will be held at Medical Hall Pharmacy. He explained that funds raised at Cansa events is largely donated to those areas where people cannot afford cancer screenings. The meeting progressed with a review of the plans for the sixth 24-hour Relay.
Luminaria bags will be prepared with a ‘hope’ logo this week and the committee is working on positioning a giant Luminaria bag on the field for the duration of the Relay. Meals, tents and security have been finalised. The support group has been tasked with identifying survivors and gifts for the survivors. Teams can enter at a cost of R700 and this includes a marquee for the duration of the Relay.
For more information call Mr Sookraj on 036 352 3720.