A cold and soggy Saturday was not going to prevent Rupertites from walking to raise funds for cancer research.
Twenty-seven teams — 25 walking and two virtual teams — participated in the 2018 Relay For Life cancer fundraiser on May 26. Prince Rupert was able to raise $100,698, exceeding their 2018 goal of $100,000.
READ MORE: Why Prince Rupert residents Relay
“Prince Rupert is just amazing. People come together and raise money for what counts,” said Sheila Seidemann, the lead organizer for the 2018 event. “Just incredible spirits and incredibly generous people.”
Seidemann said she was especially thrilled with the way the more than 200 participants braved what she described as the worst weather she has ever seen for a relay event.
The organizers had planned on having a variety of activities, including face painting, an obstacle course and a colour march available throughout the day. However, rain and high winds, which blew over tents and tarps several times throughout the day, forced them to cancel most of those plans.
Despite the weather, the Relay’s participants continued to put in lap after lap to meet the pledge commitments.
“People kept walking and didn’t give up,” she said. “It’s hard and they’re wet but this is clearly nothing compared to what someone with cancer treatment is going through.”
Seidemann said fundraising continues to be important because the research that helps those with cancer is only possible when people contribute to the cause.
“Forty years ago, half of the people taking part in our survivor lap would not be here,” she said. “The reason there are survivors now is because of that research.”
READ MORE: Why we Relay – An honour to help
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