Relay planned for Cancer Council

A Relay for Life event will be held on the Peninsula in March to raise money for the Cancer Council, according to Central Coast community relations coordinator Ms Lesley Chart.

"Relay for Life is a fun, outdoor and overnight fundraising event where teams of 10 to 15 people take turns to walk around a local oval," Ms Chart said.

Patron and supporter Cr Chris Holstein has called the event a "welcome fixture on the Peninsula calendar".

"It's important because it sends a message of hope to local cancer patients and their families while raising much needed funds for cancer research and support services," Cr Holstein said.

The Peninsula Relay for Life holds a special significance for regular participant and cancer survivor Narelle Richardson of Ettalong.

"Being a part of Relay for Life gives me the chance to make people more aware of cancer," said Ms Richardson, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2004 after completing a Rotary Bowel Scan Kit.

"Bowel cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in NSW, but if detected early, is the most curable.

"It's a biggie and people need to be more aware of it."

Ms Richardson will be leading a team of cancer survivors and their families and friends at this year's Relay for Life.

Ms Richardson said that an important part of the event was meeting other people, talking about your experiences and developing lasting friendships.

"Cancer is a difficult and often lonely journey," Ms Richardson said.

"Having a great support network of family, friends and, of course, a positive attitude is what gets you through."

Ms Chart said each year around 20,000 people take part in Relay for Life events across NSW.

For further information on Relay for Life and how you can help, contact Lesley Chart at the Cancer Council on 4325 5444 or visit www.relayforlife.com.au/nsw

Press release, 31 Jan 2007 Lesley Chart, Peninsula Relay for Life