Why Do I Relay?

Christine Teal | Feb 21, 2013

Have you ever had a bad day and wondered why this had to happen to you?? Many of us experience a lot of these. When you are having a bad day, just stop and look around you. There is always someone who has more going on then you realize. Think of that unsuspecting person who is going in for what they thought is a routine check up - only to hear that a lump has been found.

Think of that parent who knows their child just isn't right and finds out that they have a rare form of Cancer. Just think....it could be worse.

For anyone who has been given the diagnosis of Cancer, their whole life flashes before them. What did I do wrong? What could I have done to prevent this? That's why I do what I do....Relay.

You see, I'm one of the lucky ones. I haven't yet (touch wood) had this diagnosis, but have watched, prayed and cried while loved ones have.

My dad - my hero - prostate cancer survivor. I'll be honest; that Christmas was extremely hard. It didn't look good for dad because his readings were so high. Now my dad proudly walks as a Survivor. My aunt, who is more like a big sister... thyroid cancer survivor. We went through some scary times, and as a nurse - she really knew more then most. She is truly an inspiration to all, she spoke at last year's Relay and is truly one in a million; she walks proudly in the Survivor Victory Lap. My sister - my best friend, my confidante - why her? She knew her body, and wouldn't take no for an answer and rightly so....thyroid cancer! Wham; hits you from nowhere but she fought and she's one of the lucky ones, walking proudly as a Thyroid Cancer Survivor. My cousin, my BFF, my WOW gal - Breast Cancer - she fought hard and now with the love and support of her family and friends, she too walks proudly as a Breast Cancer Survivor.

I could go on and on, but you get the point.

Cancer has touched the lives of many and still does, every day. I want to be part of the event that raises that last dollar that finds a cure for Cancer. I will not stop until this happens. So please join me and my loved ones as we fight, we remember and we celebrate on June 21 at North and Central Frontenac's Relay for Life. You will be glad you did.