By Charlene Tebbutt

Still time to take part in Relay for Life

May 20, 2018 | 8:35 AM

There are just two weeks to go before Prince Albert’s annual Relay for Life fundraiser in support of cancer research.

Organizers are putting the final touches on the event, which will be held in a new location and at a new time this year; Saturday, June 2 from noon until midnight at Kinsmen Park.

Previous Relay for Life events started Friday evenings and run until suppertime on Saturday. This year’s event will see the Survivors Lap, for those who have survived cancer, start at noon on Saturday. The Caregivers’ Lap will begin at 6 p.m., with the luminary ceremony at dusk.  

This year’s honorary chair for the event is 16-year-old Chelsea Mitchell and her family.

Fundraising teams are working to raise money to support research into a cure for the disease, although Lyle Karasiuk, volunteer chair for this year’s event, says there’s still room for more teams to join. Teams can register online or by calling the local branch of the Canadian Cancer Society.

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“If they are thinking about becoming involved in the Relay, we have still plenty of time to register and we’d love to have more teams,” he said. “The teams are so enthusiastic about getting ready for the event.”

Karasiuk said there will be lots to see and do at this year’s event, including children’s activities, musical entertainment, food trucks and more. He said everyone is welcome to bring a lawn chair and join in on the fun.

“There is going to be tons of free entertainment,” Karasiuk said. “It’s going to be a real festival atmosphere and we want the public to come down.”

Karasiuk said the event will have information on hand for anyone who wants to learn more about ongoing cancer treatment research. It will also be an opportunity to connect with others who have personal experiences with the disease.

“Maybe you’re alone, or you’re not sure what to expect or you’re not sure what questions to ask, or maybe you’ve got a loved one somewhere in a neighbouring province or even closer here at home, and you’re just not sure what they’re going through or how you can support them, come on down,” he added.  

Karasiuk said survivors who want to take part can register in advance or just come out at noon to take part in the first lap. Teams of 10 can also register right up to the event, including the day of relay. Youth teams, with kids aged 16 and under must have at least two chaperones with them for the event.

“We’ve got young and old, returning teams and a couple new teams, and we’re just so encouraged and want people to come out,” Karasiuk added.

“It is the single biggest fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society in the province of Saskatchewan, and we’re just looking forward to having people out there.”

Charlene.tebbutt@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @CharleneTebbutt