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Relay for Life continues to make differences in the lives of those living with cancer

'We recognize the survivors and the people who are fighting cancer at this time and remember those who we have lost' Gil Pharand North Bay Canadian Cancer Society

The Canadian Cancer Society flag flies high above Lee Park at the North Bay overpass, serving as a reminder of Friday night’s Relay for Life fundraiser.

As part of the flag raising ceremony, Mayor Al McDonald officially proclaimed this Relay for Life week in North Bay.

“Friday June 21st is a big night for us,” said Gil Pharand, senior manager of the North Bay branch of the Canadian Cancer Society

“ReIay for Life starts at 6 o’clock sharp with the opening ceremonies at the track at CFB North Bay. Between 6 and 11 o’clock, we have a lot of entertainment going on as people walk the track. We’ve had people fundraising for months now and this is the celebration of everything that has been going on for better part of the year. “

This is the 19th annual Relay for Life in North Bay.

In its first 18 years the event has raised $3.6 million in North Bay and the surrounding area.  

“It is an exciting time for people to come out and show their support not only of the Canadian Cancer Society and the research and programs and services that we’re doing, but also for their friends, family, neighbours, anyone who has been touched by cancer,” said Pharand.   

The opening ceremonies will be immediately followed by the traditional Survivor Victory Lap.

“That is an emotional part of the whole evening. We recognize the survivors and the people who are fighting cancer at this time and remember those who we have lost. That always leads us into the party part of the walk.”

It is not too late to enter a team or sign up as an individual.

“People can register up to the event on Friday. They can register at the event on Friday, as a team, as part of a team or they can register as an individual and come up and do this. It is a community fundraiser so even if you’re doing it by yourself, you’re never alone,” said Pharand.

The event is flexible enough that participants can walk the track for whatever length of time is comfortable for them.

This year’s Honourary Survivor is Kim Kanmacher, who got her cancer diagnosis just over a year ago.

“I have a great prognosis and certainly it is kudos to people in this community that have helped support me through my journey. So, the most important thing for me getting involved in Relay for Life and the Canadian Cancer Society, is that it is a way to be able to give back to the community that has supported me in so many ways,” said Kanmacher.

“Friday night is going to be a great night. No one should go through cancer alone.  So, come out and help support people who are walking the track as well as survivors and those that we’ve lost. It is a very special night for us.”

Just over $100,000 was raised at last year’s event.