Once again, the biannual Parkes and Districts Relay For Life wrapped up over the weekend to a roaring success.
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Organisers recorded more than 500 relayers and 28 energetic teams.
Participants immersed themselves into the lively action, entertained by local artists and dance groups, with the Relay For Life vibe continuing through to the Hope Ceremony.
The event saw an early close due to concerns with safety and the weather over the weekend.
The relay had an increase of more than 40 per cent in participants, gathering at Northparkes Oval to fight back against a disease that touches the whole community.
An interim fundraising tally has seen all the hard work from the teams and volunteer organising committee come to fruition, with an interim fundraising tally of over $30,000!
Renee Rice, chair of the Parkes and Districts Committee, reminds the community banking doesn’t close for another two weeks.
“So this figure is expected to increase over the next few days,” she said.
Funds like this make an incredible difference in the local community and allow the Cancer Council NSW to provide a range of health programs targeted at servicing the local community.
“Based on the fundraising efforts so far, we are able to continue providing financial assistance and legal services to local people who are financially disadvantaged through their cancer diagnosis,” said Community Engagement Manager Cancer Council NSW Ricky Puata.
“We also connect local people with cancer nurses and psychologists through our helpline (Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20), and we receive hundreds of calls from people in the Parkes area every year.
“This service is important as it ensures noone faces a cancer diagnosis alone, and the people are connected with the information and support they need at the right time during their diagnosis.
“Unfortunately, due to serious concerns with the weather Cancer Council made a decision to close the event earlier but we were still able to experience the emotions of the Hope Ceremony and the Lap of Hope.”
The event has continued to grow in the Parkes area due to the hard work of the volunteer organising committee and commitment of team captains.
Planning is now underway for future events for the Parkes community.
Cancer Council NSW has support services which can be accessed by individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer, are currently undergoing treatment or people who care for a cancer patient.
Please feel free to contact the local Orange office on (02) 6392 0800 for further information on accessing these vital programs.
