Cancer services relay launched

The official launch of this year's Peninsula Relay for Life was held at Ocean Beach Surf Club on January 16.

The Peninsula Relay for Life celebrates its fifth year at Woy Woy Oval and has raised more than $295,000 for cancer research and supportive services over the past four years.

Guests Gosford Mayor Cr Chris Holstein and cancer carer Ms Kerrianne McNamara of Woy Woy Bay were in attendance.

Cancer Council NSW media representative Mr Alan Phillips said Cr Holstein has pledged to have his head shaved to assist with council's fundraising efforts.

"The council's team name says it all 'Mow the Mayor's Mane' and should help put the fun into fundraising whilst providing a great team-building experience for council staff," Mr Phillips said.

Cr Holstein said Relay for Life sends an important message of hope and support for cancer patients and their families while raising funds for cancer research, education and support services.

"I encourage the Central Coast community to get involved in the relay and make this a truly special event," Cr Holstein said.

Mr Phillips said Kerrianne McNamara was a carer for her sister, Geraldine, who sadly lost her battle with cancer in 2001.

"Kerrianne's commitment to supporting cancer survivors and their carers had her fulfill a dream by creating a Healing Centre where survivors and their carers can go for support and treatment," Mr Phillips said.

According to Ms McNamara, the Peninsula Relay for Life is a great community event that brings locals together to celebrate life, remember those we have lost to cancer and continue the fight back by raising funds to find a cure and improve services for cancer survivors.

"As a carer for someone with cancer, I find great comfort and inspiration from the community spirit of support at relay," Ms McNamara said.

"It's a great opportunity to celebrate survivors in the community as well as remember and honour our loved ones who have lost their personal battle with cancer at The Candlelight Ceremony.

"I would encourage all local cancer survivors, their carers, families and friends to come and spend some time at this event - walk in the opening laps, and join us for a special afternoon tea to celebrate our survival and kick off the event."

Mr Phillips said Relay for Life was a fun outdoor, overnight community-based event where teams of 10 to 15 people could take turns to walk around their local oval to honour the lives of people touched by cancer.

All funds raised by Relay for Life assist The Cancer Council's continuing fight to defeat cancer and the provision of important cancer services including the cancer Helpline.

"The Peninsula Relay for Life is a time when the community can join with local cancer survivors to celebrate life and honour the courage of people living with cancer," chair of the volunteer organising committee Ms Viv Corcoran said.

"Many Central Coast people have been affected by cancer, either directly or indirectly.

"This event is a great way to show your support."

Press release, 15 Jan 2008 Alan Phillips, Cancer Council NSW