Editor
One person can make a difference! In 1985, one man decided he had to do something to stop the endless pain, suffering and loss due to cancer. He decided to raise funds for his local American Cancer Society, by doing something he enjoyed – running marathons.
He spent an incredible 24-hours running around a track – a gruelling feat, but representative of what someone fighting cancer endures. While he circled the track, he thought about how others could take part. He envisaged a 24-hour team relay event that would raise money for the fight against cancer. Dr. Gordy Klatt’s determination was contagious and the following year he tapped into networks of friends, family and associates to raise funds and Relay For Life was born. Sadly, Dr Klatt passed away a month ago from stomach cancer.
Today, Relay For Life is a recognisable brand worldwide, with 20 countries celebrating the lives saved from cancer; remembering those lost and those fighting back… Relay For Life is the largest cancer engagement and fundraising activity in the world! Estcourt is part of the global Relay for Life family. We, as the planning committee, find immense pleasure in building a better South Africa where thousands can unite in the fight against cancer. The Relay promotes social cohesion and nation building. To see a family sitting around a campfire at 2am in the morning under the stars having a conversation brings great joy to our hearts. To see Theresa, a survivor, walking for hours on end is an inspiration to many. To show that we can have fun without smoking, alcohol and drugs is an eye-opener to our youth. 2014 Relay for Life – Estcourt was a resounding success.
Although there were fewer teams and sponsors, almost 2 000 relayers representing our rainbow nation participated in the Relay remembering, celebrating and fighting back against a disease that will affect every person in some way or another. Dr Badul inspired survivors with her motivational talk with emphasis on diet, exercise and laugh therapy. Her colleagues from the Skin Rejuvenation Clinic and Medi-spa pampered survivors and conducted health screenings. Diviyasha, Pravisha and Yuvna from Hair Trendz provided massages, mini-facials and hair styles. Rashida Cassim and her friends spoilt all survivors with tasty savouries and cakes.
A sumptuous supper was provided by V and A Décor. Gifts from Macksons, Nestle’, Foschini, JB’s supermarket, Estcourt Spar, Sasko and Linda ended a perfect evening with music provided by Viren from Sashnee Sungeeth.
The organising committee also decided to focus on human values at the Relay this year. Right conduct, peace, truth, love and non-violence were highlighted during a special lap and throughout the relay.
The Relay opened with the heartfelt survivor’s lap honouring cancer survivors and their caregivers. Lall Hariparsad, the inspiration behind the Relay cut the ribbon for the sixth time. Teams representing religious, cultural, sporting, educational, business and families began the long 24-hour walk.
After sun set, tribute was paid in a very emotive Luminaria Ceremony by lighting candles inside luminaria bags which encircled the track. These Luminaria bags are dedicated to those who have the lost their battle, to those who are still fighting and to those who have won their struggle against cancer. Reverend Ruth James once again presented an inspirational talk and motivational talk on HOPE.
Twins Fireworks concluded the Luminaria ceremony with a spectacular fireworks display. DJ for Life (Preggie Naidoo), DJ Shanton, DJ Akshay and Sashnee Sungeeth kept the walkers entertained all night with their carefully selected song list. The Relay closed on Sunday at 10am with a surprise visit by the clown from Boswell Circus.
Estcourt had completed the sixth successive 24-hour Relay… a great feat indeed for a small town.
After all suppliers have been paid, the organising committee will be able to donate R90 000 to the Cancer Association of South Africa for its research, advocacy and health care programmes. Heartfelt thanks to all who made this event possible. This event is sponsored annually by Al-Imdaad Foundation- Estcourt. Thank you to all the advertisers who supported the Cansa Relay booklet.
Prizewinners
1. Baton- Tumornators.
2. Banner- Hope for Life and PicknPay.
3. Best dressed team- Sleepwalkers.
4. Best Cansa message- Umtshezi Volleyball Association and Eagles.
5. Human value message- Stars of Hope.
6. Special award fundraising- Femida Govender (Mooi River), Angela Keyter and Charmaine O’Brien.
7. Lions Club- Service above self.
8. Sukyo Mahikiri- Service above self.
9. Best captain- Harry from Purple Scarves.
10. Highest individual fundraiser- Charmaine O’Brien – Eagles.
11. Team fundraising- Umtshezi Volleyball Association.
12. Perseverance (females); Delene, Rehna, Angela, Mrs Scheepers, Reshma, Patricia, Theresa, Kollie, Carolyn, Marietijie, Varisha and Joy.
13. Perseverance (males): Ramie, Harry, Rajan, Dave, Cecil, Steven, Sewlal senior, Gopichund senior, and Jayraj.
Anil Sookraj
Event Chairperson
