Kapiti Relay For Life not far away

Patricia McKechnie will be taking part in Kapiti Relay for Life next year. Photo: David Haxton

Patricia McKechnie is one of a large number of people expected to take part in the Kapiti Relay For Life early next year.

The relay takes place at Mazengarb Reserve, Paraparaumu, from Saturday, February 18 at 4pm to Sunday February 19 at 9am.

It is an inspiring community event that gives everyone a chance to celebrate cancer survivors and carers, remember loved ones lost to cancer, and fight back by raising awareness and funds to support the work of the Cancer Society.

"Lots of teams walking or running on a track, for 17 hours, good music and entertainment, health checks, fun and laughter, and some personal and poignant moments is what Relay For Life is for me, a celebration that life is for living," said Patricia, a volunteer for the Cancer Society in Kapiti.

She said the relay was "a great way for those of us who have been on a cancer journey to celebrate our survivorship, and our second chance at life.

"The journey changed me, but in many ways it was a positive life experience.

"It focused me on what was important in my life and made me recognise what is just clutter.

"Life is lived at a fast pace and the cancer gave me the chance to pause and appreciate the people around me."

She said the relay was an opportunity for cancer survivors to publicly demonstrate they can survive cancer well, and with humour.

"However a return to wellness doesn't happen to everyone who develops cancer.

"The candlelight ceremony is an opportunity to remember and honour family and friends.

"You can decorate a candle bag and, as it gets dark, the candles are lit around the track in a brief ceremony.

"It is a magical moment lighting a candle in remembrance for someone close to you."

Patricia said if anyone wanted to find more about being in a team for Relay For Life, or volunteering to help with the Relay, or any other activities of the Cancer Society they could "come in and see us at our new office in Kapiti Lights".

Are you keen to participate in the Kapiti Relay For Life and form a team or be part of a team? Visit www.relayforlife.org.nz or contact Anne Brunt on 2988514 or email anne.b@cancersoc.org.nz