Thursday, May 27, 2010

24 HOURS TO GO...

Only 24 hours to go! The forecast is calling for some rain on Friday morning, but hopefully it will clear up by the time Relay For Life begins!

Here are some VERY IMPORTANT last minute details you should be aware of. Please take note of them and pass them along to all your team members.

First of all - rain or shine, Relay will go on! Cancer doesn’t sleep or go away in bad weather – so  for one night neither will we.


PARKING

We encourage all participants to carpool to avoid congested traffic and parking headaches! Parking passes were handed out at bank nights.


PARKING LOT

The main lot is the large parking area south of Water Avenue. There will NOT be any "drop off" in this lot. All your supplies will need to be carried to the Relay site. Crossing guards and City Police will be present to assist crossing the street to Canwest Park.

DROP-OFF ZONE

We will have a "drop off" zone for those that require assistance with their camping gear. The attached map indicates the route to access this drop zone. NO parking is permitted in this area. Cars will be directed to a spot where you must unload your stuff and then drive out and into a designated parking area. Gators will be available to load and drive your stuff to your tent site.

Access to the drop off zone is via Westbrook Street. Drive west on Pioneer under the train bridge and turn right onto Westbrook. Signs will guide you to the zone. If you come west down Waterfront Drive you can also access the drop off as indicated on the map.

There are many Impark lots in the surrounding area as well if main parking lot fills up.


DONATION DROP OFFS


Any team or individual who has not deposited their donations and luminary money at one of the BANK NIGHTS which were held on May 20, 25, & 26 at the Canadian Cancer Society, donations should be submitted to the Banking area at the Relay on Friday, May 28th prior to 9:00PM, by TEAM CAPTAINS only.

TENTS

No tents will be permitted on the field if it rains. In case of rain, teams will be directed to the concourse level with all their belongings.

RESPECT THE BALLPARK

As you are aware, the tent site locations are on the grass ballpark. We must take caution to ensure we do not damage to their grounds.

No metal stakes; please use plastic ones for your tent.

No fires, no propane, etc.

No dumping of ice on the field.

No alcohol

No pets

The site map is not drawn to scale.

We are unable to guarantee that your tent site will be exactly as shown on this map. We will be adhering to the ballpark direction, guidelines and regulations, and the placement of equipment.


EXTRAS
For those of you wanting to participate in some of the fun games, contests and themed laps, the following are ones you will need to prepare or bring something “extra: for:



TEAM CONTESTS
• Best decorated tent site

• Best team costumes (costume lap)

• Team Cheer Contest


THEMED LAPS

• Pajama Lap

• Costume Lap


PLUS, we have an early morning yoga session at 5 a.m. Please bring your own yoga mat to use.



MERCHANDISE
As mentioned in the last Relay Rap, there will all kinds of Relay For Life merchandise for sale.
There will also be some food vendors open selling food, so we suggest bringing some extra money just in case!



See you all there; you’re in for one great night!

Curing Cancer One Cupcake at a Time

Our fourth honourary luminary lighter this year Derrick Godfrey. If his names sounds familiar it is because he is the president of The Cupcake Corner here in Winnipeg and Saskatoon.





Together, Derek and his staff of 5 have helped raise thousands of dollars to help find a cure to cancer one cupcake at a time. On top being incredibly proud to be asked to help out in this event, he wants everyone to know that its only with the incredible support they have received from the community that they can continue to help raise funds to fight this disease. He is in the process of losing his grandfather to cancer, and knows that events like this won’t save him, but will maybe stop someone else from losing their grandpa.

The Cupcake Corner has also a Relay For Life sponsor. These delicious cupcakes have popped at at previous year's relays, kick-off and Survivor and Team Captain receptions. Keep an eye out for them at Relay For Life tomorrow night! If you blink you might miss them, as these cupcakes go fast. Visit the store at 439 Stradbrook Avenue in Winnipeg (corner of Osborne and Stradbrook).

http://www.thecupcakecorner.ca/

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Survivor Celebrates Victory by Fighting Back

Jackie Stephen was diagnosed with DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) breast cancer in January 2007 and underwent a mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. The positive outcome and gratitude Jackie felt for everyone who supported her and her family throughout the ordeal, led her, with the support of her close friends, to create the Keeping Abreast Fund, and raises money specifically for Breast Cancer Reconstruction Surgery Research & Education.

Jackie is the proud mother of two children, Katie and Dylan and works as the Director of Operations at FortWhyte Alive. She has also been an active volunteer with many Winnipeg organizations.

Jackie is the Honourary Survivor for this year's Winnipeg Relay For Life and will cut the ribbon for us on Friday May 28.

To find out more about Keeping Abreast, visit the website: http://www.keepingabreast.org/home/media/newspapers/

Luminary to be Lit in Honour of Shaw Ostapchuk

Les Keisman is a 20 year old who hails from Gimli. He is on the “Cooking Up a Cure” team because his best friend, Shaw Ostapchuk recently died from Lung Cancer at the age of 21. He was an amazing drummer and artist and is greatly loved and missed by anyone who had the blessing of knowing.



Les feels this is a beautiful ceremony in which to commemorate Shawn’s courage and strength, and to perhaps inspire others who are going through similar situations. He has been asked to light one of the first luminaries in honour of Shaw during the ceremony this Friday.


When the group from Olive Garden was assembling their team, it was with the intention that Shawn would be able to join them – With his passing, they are now walking in his memory.


Tuesday, May 25, 2010

REMEMBER LOVED ONES LOST...

Four words can be to describe Relay For Life: celebrate, remember, and fight back. At Relay For Life, we CELEBRATE the cancer survivors, REMEMBER loved ones lost, and FIGHT BACK to find a cure.

Three ceremonies take place at Relay For Life too.

Immediately following the opening ceremony, the inaugural lap known as the Survivors' Victory Lap gives survivors a chance to celebrate; and inspires hope to the rest of participants in attendance. Each year, the number of survivors that participate in the lap grows, showing we are headed in the right direction towards a cancer-free world.

The Fight Back ceremony that takes place at the end of the event the next morning, is a time for us to finish the Relay off with some inpiration. We take a moment to reflect on why we fight back and what we can do year round to keep our pledge to do our part to help eradicate cancer.

The other special ceremony happens at dusk - the Luminary Ceremony. We have a minute of silence and take a moment to light all the luminaries that surround the track. For many, it is a very emotional moment, especially those who have lost a loved one to cancer.

In Winnipeg, the Relay For Life committee has been working hard to make this year's ceremony a little extra special. Local musician Natalie Ramsey has written a special song for the ceremony which she will perform. In addition, there will be four special luminaries lit in honour of four special people with close ties to the Winnipeg Relay For Life.

Everyone who has lost their battle to cancer has a powerful story that will never be forgotten by their loved ones. We encourage you all to take the minute of silence during the luminary ceremony at Relay to pay tribute to your loved ones.















Everyday from now until Friday, among other things, we will post the biography of the four people who will ahve the first four luminaries lit in their honour at Relay For Life this year.

Today, we begin with Karalee Grant's story.


Karalee was diagnosed with a rare sinus cancer at age 19 and underwent radiation and surgery in Toronto. At age 20 she found out the disease had spread to her lunges and she started chemo. At age 22 she again heard the devastating news that the cancer had spread this time to her brain and at age 23 after a long hard fight succumb to this unrelenting opponent.

During Karalee's illness she became an advocate for Young Adult Cancer patients and survivors speaking at schools, doing both television and newspaper interviews furthering her message that cancer can happen at any age and it can happen to you. Due to Karalee's volunteer activities with the Canadian Cancer Society she was the recipient of the National Medal of Courage which was presented to her this February.

 
Karalee felt privileged to be asked to be the key note speaker at last years Relay for Life Summit which was held in Winnipeg. Karalee's speech both inspired and motivated the representatives and volunteers from across the prairie provinces who attended the event. The following is an excerpt from Karalee's speech:



"I live my life not letting cancer dictate what I can and cannot do, times may be rough during treatment but as soon as I am able I am fully enjoying life. I have a greater appreciation for the little things in life and believe as the wise Japanese proverb states ... Fall 7 times stand up 8"


Although Karalee stood up as many times as she could she passed away believing in loving life no matter what challenges you face.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Karalee Grant

Friday, May 21, 2010

USE YOUR SUN SENSE!

If you live in Manitoba, you know the sun is out in full force and summer has arrived. The temperature reached +30 this week and it is only May! If this is any indication of the kind of summer we Manitobans are going to have, it is going to be a hot one!

This long weekend might not be as hot as this past week, but even in cloudy weather, the suns rays can still be harmful to your skin. The Canadian Cancer Society reccomends using a little SunSense to protect you and your family from getting too much sun.
















What you can do


If you can, plan your outdoor activities before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m. when the sun is not at its strongest, or any time of the day when the UV Index is 3 or less.


Remember, if your shadow’s shorter than you, it’s time to find some shade or go inside. If you can’t find shade, create your own. Take along an umbrella – that way you can have shade wherever you need it.


Babies need extra protection because their skin is very sensitive. It’s best to keep babies out of direct sunlight. Use clothing that covers their arms and legs, add a hat and put on a little sunscreen. Put the stroller, playpen or carriage in the shade – under trees or an umbrella.


Cover up


One of the best ways to make sure you don’t burn is to cover up. Choose clothing that is:

loose fitting – like a t-shirt

tightly woven

lightweight



Where's my hat?

Don’t forget to grab your hat on your way out! Most skin cancers happen on the face and neck. These areas need extra protection.
Wear a hat with a wide brim that covers your head, face, ears and neck. Hats like baseball caps won’t give you enough protection.
Put sunscreen on your ears, chin and neck even when you’re wearing a hat.



Wear your sunglasses

Sunglasses can help prevent damage to your eyes by blocking a large amount of UV rays. Keep your shades on and make sure your children wear them too. Choose sunglasses with:
even shading
medium to dark lenses (grey, brown or green tint)
UVA and UVB protection



Sunscreen – Don't leave home without it!

Sunscreen can’t block all the sun’s rays. Use it along with shade, clothing and hats, not instead of them. Use sunscreen as a backup in your sun protection plan.
Your sunscreen should have a sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher, and if you work outdoors or are planning to be outside most of the day, use an SPF 30.

Look for “broad spectrum” on the label. This means that the sunscreen offers protection against both UVA and UVB ultraviolet rays.


Apply your sunscreen generously and at least 20 minutes before going outside. Read the label and follow the instructions for reapplying. Don’t forget to cover your nose, ears and the tops of your feet. Use a waterproof sunscreen if you’re in or near water.


Keep thes tips in mind this long weekend and all summerlong, including all your Relay events. We hope the sun is out and shining next Friday for Winnipeg's 9th annual Relay For Life!

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

THE IMPACT OF $100

Ever wonder why we encourage each particpant to raise $100?

On average:

  • One hundred dollars can be used to match one person newly diagnosed with cancer with someone who has survived the same disease in the Cancer Connection Program.
  • One hundred dollars pays for four patients to be transported at no cost to medical appointments. This program is offered by the Canadian Cancer Society Volunteer Drivers and the Freemason Cancer Car Project.
  • One hundred dollars pays for 50 Thingamaboob keychains to remind woman about breast health.
  • One hundred dollars pays for one important chemical used in research experiments funded by the Canadian Cancer Society.
  • One hundred dollars allows the Cancer Information Service to provide information to two clients.
  • One hundred dollars buys 500 petri dishes and 144 microscope slides which are essential pieces of lab equipment for cancer research.

If $100 dollars can provide all that, imagine the difference your team is making with the $1000 you are encouraged to raise collectively.


Only ten days remain until Relay For Life. It is still possible to get pledges online and in cash. All it takes is 30 minutes the next ten days! Here's how:

  • send 10 e-mails to friends you haven’t yet asked for a donation. From your Relay centre, you can send all 10 in under 10 minutes
  • span your circle - send 10 e-mails to family members, neighbours and coworkers you have not yet asked . Again - it takes under 10 minutes
  • send a follow-up e-mail to 10 people you’ve asked previously, but have yet to support you with a donation.
You can send all 30 e-mails in less than 30 minutes over the course of three days — it's that quick and convenient from your Relay centre. Don't forget to send a thank you e-mail to your donors, also from your Relay Centre account after you've received a donation

Good luck!

Monday, May 17, 2010

GET READY...

Relay For Life is less than two weeks away! To get you excited for the event, we have decided to give you a sneak peek of the schedule ahead of time!

As usual, there are plenty ofcontests and games to keep you entertained all night. Most of it is just for fun, but the team contests will be awarded prizes.

Tema contests are as follows:

Best decorated site
Best team costumes


TWO important activities to note that have recently been added are the team cheer contests and the early morning yoga session. Come prepared with a yoga mat if you want to participate in the yoga session at 5 a.m. and start practicing your team cheers if you want to enter the team cheer contest.


See schedule below for all games and activities.



5:00 p.m. Registration opens

5 – 9 p.m. Funtastic Kid’s Zone Opens

5 – 9 p.m. Finance House Opens

5 – 10 p.m. Fairmont Survivor Tent Opens

5 – 9 p.m. Merchandise for sale (on Concourse level)


6:30 p.m. OPENING CEREMONY

Emcee: Beau from BOB FM
Winnipeg Goldeyes: Andrew Collier
MB Lotteries:
CCS greeting: Jack Murray – Chair of Board of Directors
Minister of Healthy Living: Jim Rondeau

6:50 p.m. Warm-up


7:00 p.m. Ribbon cutting: Jackie Stephens

SURVIVOR LAP begins led by the
Khartum Shrine Pipers and Drums
RELAY BEGINS

7:45 – 9:30 p.m. Highway 59 performs on Audioworks Stage


9:00 p.m. Finance House closes
               Luminary Sales close
               Costume Lap – All teams dressed and walking lap will be judged for team costume contest


10:00 p.m. LUMINARY CEREMONY

Luminaries Lit - Four Corners of Hope introduced by Beau:
Derek Godfrey, Kim Malchuk, the Grant family, & Les Kiesman
Natalie Ramsey performs as luminaries are lit
One minute of silence
Piper leads lap

10:30 p.m. Highland Dancers perform
 
11- 1:00 a.m Karaoke in the Games Tent
 
12- 12:30 a.m. Zumba with Wendy Elias & Suelang Watson on Audioworks Stage

1- 2:00 a.m. Team Cheer contest AudioWorks stage

1:00 – 4:00 a.m. Bingo in the Games tent

2:00- 3:00 a.m. Poker Lap - collect your card with each lap and at the end of the hour a surprise hand wins!

3:00 – 4:00 a.m. Request a song hour

4:00 – 5:00 a.m. Pajama Lap - wear your PJ’s and get a glow bracelet! (while supplies last)

5:00 a.m. Yoga – Christina from Anunda Studio

5:30 a.m. Pancake Breakfast

6:00 a.m. FIGHT BACK CEREMONY

7:00 a.m. LAST LAP

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Cops for Cancer Headshave

The Winnipeg Relay For Life usually holds a headshave in partenrship with the Manitoba Moose, with proceeds from the headshave going towards Relay For Life. Unfortunately this year it was not held. BUT there is another headshave event taking place this coming weekend that is just as fun and in support of the Canadian Cancer Society.

The Cops for Cancer Headshave  will take place on May 15 from 12 to 3 p.m. at St. Vital Centre. It will be hosted by Ace Burpee from Hot 103. Over 40 police officers will shave their heads in support of the Canadian Cancer Society.

To make a donation, click here http://convio.cancer.ca/site/TR?team_id=208601&fr_id=7880&pg=team
OR better yet, go out to St.Vital Centre and cheer them on in person and make your donation there!

Friday, May 7, 2010

IT'S NOT TOO LATE!

You still have time to participate in one the largest cancer fundraising event in the country!

We are exactly three weeks away from the Relay For Life in Winnipeg and you still have time to do your part.

To regsiter a team, pledge a team or individual, or to sign up as a volunteer visit www.cancer.ca/relay.


Are you a cancer survivor?

Consider taking part in the inaugural lap of the event -the Survivors' Victory Lap! It's free for survivors and by participating you inspire hope to all particiapnts there that day. So come out and CELEBRATE your victory by joining in on the lap. To register, go to www.cancer.ca/relay or phone (204) 789- 0884.


Take a moment to watch this video and pass it on to everyone you know so they too can see what Relay For Life is all about!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcUevb59Xpc

Thursday, May 6, 2010

SUPPORT RELAY TEAM FUNDRAISERS!

Two exciting fundraiser from Relay For Life teams going on this weekend!


The first one will be a multi-team garage sale, put together by all three of local author and Relay For Life Supporter, Kim Malchuk's Tasting Rain teams.




The huge garage sale will be held on


Saturday, May 8th



8 a.m. - 2 p.m.


1202 Mulvey Avenue


 
 
 
 
 
 
The second fundariser will be held a ZUMBA FOR THE CURE fundraiser.

 
 
Join Relay team Once Upon a Cure, for a 90 minute Zumba workout -the latest workout trend which fuses dance and exercise! It will be a  fun-filled class hosted by TWO Zumba instructors! There will be a break in between and snacks, refreshments and a silent auction afterwards. Tickets are only $10.
 
 
 
Sunday, May 9 (Yes we know it's Mother's Day - bring her along too! Or send her alone if you can't make it, we know she'd appreciate two fun hours to herself to in support of a great cause!)
 
1- 3:30 p.m.
 
North Kildonan Community Centre (1144 Kingsford Pl)
 
 
To lear more about Zumba visit the website at Zumba.com
 
PLUS: Zumba will take the stage at the Winnipeg Relay For Life on May 28th! See event guide for more details!

Friday, April 30, 2010

Support our Relay For Life teams!

Looking for something to do this weekend? Why not stop by one of the following team fundraisers? Don't let the rain stop you - money raised at these tow events will go towards the Winnipeg Relay For Life.


TEAM TUMERATOR is planning a HUGE team fundraiser for May 1st.
It will be a garage sale, bake sale, plant sale, car wash, BBQ, and a 50/50 draw all in one!


Date: Saturday May 1st, 2010


Time: 9am – 4pm


Location: Norberry-Glenlee Community Centre (26 Molgat Avenue)

If anyone would like to volunteer, make a donation or donate items to this event, please contact:

Kristin 770-9585 kriscorpio25@hotmail.com

or Darlene 782-7179 darpel@hotmail.com




THE LIFEFORCE TEAM will be having a garage sale on:


Friday April 30 from 5-8 PM &


Saturday May 1, 8:30AM- 6 PM


at 457 Almey Avenue (off Lagimodiere)


Stop by to support our Relay For Life teams!

Can't make it out? Support either team, or any Realy team by visiting www.cancer.ca/relay.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Relay Profile: Chemo Savvy

Chemo Savvy have been long time Relay For Life participants. You will see them walking the Survivors' Victory Lap; their energy is contagious! They are a special group of people who are all breast cancer survivors. Participating in the Dragon Boat racing inspired their organization to become what it is today.





















CHEMO SAVVY, Inc. is a registered chartiable oranization that participates in the sport of Dragon Boat racing. They are 73 members strong. All of the woman on the team, with the exception of the trainers, are all breast cancer survivors. They range in age from 30's to 80 plus! They have a board of talented and very dedicated volunteers. Their mission is to promote heightened awareness of Breast Cancer, to inspire physical and emotional well being of our members. Their our goal to show others, what they have learned themselves, that there is a life after Breast Cancer. It can be, not only healthy but exciting as well. They have participated in races here in Winnipeg, as well as in Vancouver, Regina, Halifax and as far away as Italy and New Zealand, to name a few. Their "rose ceremony", which they participate in at the final heat, is not only to pay tribute to the memory of lives lost to breast cancer but to renew the promise to continue the race against breast cancer until it has been beat. They have learned to live life to the fullest and simplest of things!

Monday, April 26, 2010

Congratulations to Thompson Relay For Life!

We would like to send a BIG congratulations to Thompson who kicked off the first of the Manitoba Relays on Friday April 23! They had a successful and memorable evening and raised approx: $96,000 cash and $136,000 with GIK!


 
CONGRATULATIONS THOMPSON!
 
 
The rest of the Relay For Life dates in Manitoba are as follows:
 
 
Steinbach - May 28, 2010 -  A.D. Penner Park
 
Winnipeg - May 28 - Canwest Park
 
Brandon - June 4 - Riverbank Discovery Centre
 
Dauphin - June 4 - Selo Ukraina
 
Swan River - June 11 - Ag Society Fairgrounds
Roblin - July 9 - Currey Park
International Peace Gardens - August 6 -


Each relay is unique in their own way. Go out and support your local Relay For Life!
 

Friday, April 23, 2010

WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES

Did you know that money raised at Relay For Life not only supports world class research, the money raised provides Manitobans with a range of programs and services?



 
  •  Cancer Information and Support provides free answers to all of your  cancer-related question by phone, email, fax or mail.

  • Peer Support Service matches people living with cancer with volunteers who have had cancer in the recent past through telephone or face to face visits.

  • Transportation Service provides safe and reliable rides for people living with cancer in Winnipeg, Brandon and some rural communities. If you are staying in Winnipeg or Brandon for your treatment, you are also eligible for Canadian Cancer Society’s transportation service.

 
  • Health Fair Displays are available for your organization. They include brochures and information and can be tailored to your theme.

  • Smokers Helpline provides callers with advice from trained specialists about quitting smoking and other tobacco use. Individuals wanting to help friends and loved ones can also call.


  •   Smokers Helpline Online is an interactive web-based version of the Smokers Helpline program.

  • Publications on cancer, treatments, prevention and support are available free of charge and include information on specific cancers, healthy diets, regular exercise and the latest research on the fight against cancer.

 
  • SunSense Program introduces sun safety to children and their care givers in fun and interactive lessons. The program is available free of charge to all teachers, day care workers and youth leaders.

 
  • Knowledge Exchange Network is a service available for health care professionals and provides information packages of effective practice in chronic disease prevention, healthy living palliative care.

 
  • Advocacy Network strives to improve care for cancer patients, speak out on cancer related issues and raise awareness of cancer prevention issues.

 
For more information on Canadian Cancer Society, Manitoba Division programs and services, visit www.cancer.ca or call 1-888-532-6982

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS!

Volunteer Appreciation Week April 19-26


















Winnipeg Relay For Life volunteers at Canwest Global Park.



National Volunteer Week pays tribute to the millions of Canadian volunteers who donate their time and energy.


A heartfelt thank you goes out to the volunteers of the Canadian Cancer Society Winnipeg Relay For Life for the work they do – helping out, giving back and having fun. From setting up to resgitration to tearing down, our event would not be possible without the time you dedicate to helping out.







If you would like to would like to volunteer again this year, or are a first time volunteer looking to get involved at this year's Relay For Life on May 28, there are still various areas and flexible times for you to volunteer at. Register as a volunteer online at www.cancer.ca/relay.

Friday, April 16, 2010

FUNDRAISE FOR RELAY ON FACEBOOK!


Since most of us already have an existing facebook account, why not let all your facebook friends know about your participation in Relay and give them an opportunity to pledge you?

You never know who may be looking at your facebook profile (hmmm...scary thought), and you might be surprised to see who may donate to you! Who would have thought the guy that used to call you names in grade three has matured and donated $25 towards your fundraising goal?! Must be his way of saying sorry...

Setting up the "widget" to show up on your facebook profile is easy! And, it makes the ability for people to pledge you very convenient. All you need is an existing Relay account (and a facebook account of course).

Follow these 5 easy steps to set the widget up:

STEP 1
Go to www.cancer.ca/relay and login using your name and password. If you haven't already registered, you must do that first, then proceed.

STEP 2
Go to: My participant centre, located at the top left corner once you have logged in.


STEP 3
Scroll down and click on the Fundraise with Facebook logo.
STEP 4
This will now open up your facebook account. (You might have to log in first.) You will have to click on the ALLOW button to allow the widget to appear on your profile.


STEP 5
This will open up a box for Request for Special Permissions. Click on ALLOW once again, and the widget should appear on your profile!

If you have any problems, you might have to try it another way. Visit this link for more information on how to effectively use the online tools: http://convio.cancer.ca/site/DocServer/using_Relay_online_tools_w_template.pdf?docID=3148

DID YOU KNOW...

That there is a section called Participant Resources that has lots of information and resources to help you? Even if you already knwo what you are doing, have a look, there are fundraising ideas, information for team captains, regsitration forms and donation forms that you can print out! You can find the link on the left hand menu, under Get Information. Check it out!

Thursday, April 15, 2010

TAKING A BITE OUT OF CANCER

Cupcake Fundraiser a success!

On the morning of April 14, the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) teamed up with Winnipeg Relay For Life sponsors Curve 94.3 and The Cupcake Corner for a delicious fundraiser! Curve’s Jay and Andrea from the morning show, CCS staff, volunteers, and Relay for Life committee members stood on the windy corner of Confusion Corner during the morning rush hour and sold 500 dozen cupcakes. That’s 6,000 cupcakes!

Each dozen sold for $15, with $7 from each sale going directly towards Relay For Life, bringing us $3500 closer towards our goal!






















The success of this event would not have been possible without the support we received from our wonderful sponsors and volunteers!
We would like to thank the following:

The Cupcake Corner for initiating the idea and for the long hours spent making the cupcakes
Curve 94.3 for bringing in their energetic team to assist and for airing live on location from the sale. They also donated reusable bags to give away.
Winnipeg Free Press for providing free copies of their newspaper to all the supporters
MB Pork for donating stress pigs that went in the goody bags.
MB Lotteries for donating tents.
Cornelia Bean for donating the tea
All the CCS staff and volunteers who helped out!

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Donate your hair to make wigs for women who have lost their hair due to treatment

We often have people ask us how to donate their hair for wigs for cancer patients. Here are two great programs that allow you to donate your locks to be made into wigs for women who experience hair loss during cancer treatments.



Pantene Beautiful Lengths

A real-hair wig allows a woman to look in the mirror and at least see a familiar face while she fights to regain a sense of normalcy in her life.The Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) is pleased to distribute the Pantene Beautiful Lengths real-hair wigs. While this new program aims to assist as many cancer patients as possible, ultimately the number of free wigs that become available will depend entirely on the number of ponytail donations received.

Creating a real-hair wig takes approximately three to four months, and each wig requires at least six ponytails to make.As Pantene Beautiful Lengths wigs are created, they are distributed for free through the Canadian Cancer Society’s national network of community offices. Women facing cancer can find out about the availability of a Pantene Beautiful Lengths wig by calling the Canadian Cancer Society at 1 888-939-3333. The Society’s toll free line can also provide callers with access to many resources, including information about cancer and emotional support for those dealing with the disease. Pantene is also donating $100,000 to CCS this year.



Click on this link to find out more about the proagram and the requirements and directions for donating your hair. http://www.pantene.com/en-CA/article/requirements_for_donating.jspx



La Petite Couette” – “The Little Hairpiece


Evelyn Valcourt, owner/manager of Evelyn’s Wig Sales & Service, along with the help of her granddaughter, Stephanie, accepts hair donations for the purpose of making wigs in order to help children and young adults undergoing hair loss from cancer treatments or Alopecia Areata. Evelyn’s is the only Manitoba business working closely with Manitoba hairstylists for this worthy cause.

To find out more, visit their website at: http://www.evelynswigs.com/donate.htm
 

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

CUPCAKES IN SUPPORT OF RELAY FOR LIFE!

Tomorrow morning, April 14, motorists in Winnipeg can have their cake and eat it too! Well, their cupcakes anyways.

Winnipeg Relay For Life sponsors Curve 94.3, and The Cupcake Corner will be at Confusion Corner (230 Osborne Street, Dollarama parking lot) between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. selling dozens of cupcakes, all in support of the Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life!

Staff from the radio station, Canadian Cancer Society volunteeers and Relay committee members will be on hand delivering the cupackes directly to your car. A dozen mini cupcakes will sell for $15, $7 of which will go directly towads this year's Relay For Life! Cornelia Bean will also be there providing complimentary coffee and the Winnipeg Free Press will be handing out copies of their newspaper.

Stop by to get your sugar fix and support Relay For Life at the same time!

Monday, April 12, 2010

How Terry Fox changed Canada

Today is the is the 30th anniversary of the launch of the Marathon of Hope, read how Terry Fox changed Canada; With comments from Vice-President of the Canadian Cancer Society Research Institute, Michael Wosnick.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/793452--how-terry-fox-changed-canada?bn=1

Friday, April 9, 2010

The countdown begins!

As of today, there are only seven weeks left until the Winnipeg Relay For Life! That may sound like a long way to go, but this time of year tends to go by faster then we notice!

The spring brings with the the end of the fiscal year, making it a busy time of year at work for many people. The warmer weather brings with it sports practices as we come to the beginning of a new sports season. People start training for marathons, gardening season begins, and evening walks are enjoyed by many. With it being such an enjoyable time of year, some of you may forget that Relay For Life is now less than two months away!



For those of you who are still registering teams, getting new members signed up and fundraising, take a moment to think about how you can tie in your spring acitvities with your Relay For Life fundraising.

We already have a few teams share their fundraising ideas with us. Here are a few suggestions:

- have a bbq lunch at work
- contact your local Sobey's, Safeways, & Wal-Marts to set up a hot dog sale outside their stores on a weekend
- have a garage/yard sale. Get your spring clenaing and fundraising done in one shot!
- have a ice cream sundae sale at work. Buy the ice cream and toppings, pick a warm day to set up your make-your-own sundae station at work for a minimum donation
- have a car wash
- have a sports tournament


So get your team together and plan a fundraiser for sometime in the next seven weeks! Because before you know it, it will be May 28th!

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

RELAY KICK-OFF FUN FOR ALL!

On Wednesday March 24, the Winnipeg Relay For Life held their Relay For Life Kick-off at the Tijuana Yacht Club.


Everyone who attended enjoyed some live entertainment by Kim Reimer and her band. Curve 94.3’s Andrea Collins did a live remote from the kick-off and Kim Malchuk was there promoting her book Tasting Rain, of which she is donating $5 from every book sold towards Relay For Life.
The committee would like to extend a big thank you to Canad Inns Polo Park for their generosity in hosting the kick off and for all the snacks and refreshments. Also, a huge thanks goes to The Cupcake Corner who donated the delicious mini cupcakes for the event.

25 survivors registered that evening alone, and we now have a total of 48 teams, comprised of 312 participants so far! Keep up the good work and keep spreading the word!

To register your team, go to www.cancer.ca/relay

Friday, March 26, 2010

Local Musician writes special song for Relay

For those of you who were at Relay For Life last year, you will recall Natalie Ramsey, a talented local musician who wrote a song especially for our Relay titled I Will be the One.

We are happy to announce that Natalie will be back to perform at our Relay this year! She will also be performing at the Team Captain/Survivor Reception at Canad Inns on Monday, April 26.

To listen and watch her youtube video of I Will be the One, click on the link below.
http://www.natalieramsay.com/Songs%20and%20Videos.htm

Natalie Ramsey

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

JOIN US FOR THE RELAY FOR LIFE KICK OFF!

Join us tomorrow night for our Relay For Life Kick-off!

If you're a Relay participant, come help us kick off another great year!

If you've never particpated, come find out what all the talk is about!

Be the first to see this year's new Relay For Life clothing line!

Enjoy snacks and refreshments oncluding delicious cupcakes courtesy of the Cupcake Corner!

Curve 94.3 will be boradcasting live on the air!

The party goes from 6-9 PM at the Tijuana Yacht Club, Canad Inns Polo Park (you must be 18 + to attend)

Thursday, March 11, 2010

No tan is a safe tan!

With March spring break approaching, the Canadian Cancer Society reminds us of the dangers of tanning and debunks some tanning myths. If you’re thinking of getting a "base tan" by using a tanning bed or sun lamp before going on a sunny holiday, you may want to think again.

“There's no safe way to get a tan,” says Heather Chappell, Director, Cancer Control Policy, Canadian Cancer Society. “Tanned skin is damaged skin. When your skin changes colour after being exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays, it's because your skin is trying to protect itself.”




Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. It's also one of the most preventable.



In 2009, 5,000 Canadians were expected to be diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer and about 940 died from the disease. Melanoma incidence rates are increasing each year. Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common form of cancer among Canadians, with 75,100 expected cases in 2009 and 270 expected deaths.

“In order to reduce your risk of skin cancer, the Society advises Canadians not to use indoor tanning equipment,” says Chappell.



Myths and Facts


The indoor tanning industry has promoted false claims that tanning is safe. Here are the facts:

Myth: There is no conclusive evidence that indoor tanning causes cancer.



Fact: Yes there is . World renowned cancer research experts have determined there is a direct link between using indoor tanning equipment and skin cancer. No studies have proved otherwise. In 2009, the World Health Organization upgraded the classification of UV-emitting devices, including tanning beds, from a probable carcinogen to a known carcinogen – in other words, from something that we think probably causes cancer to something that we know causes cancer.



Myth: Indoor tanning is safe as long as you don’t burn



Fact: There is no safe way to get a tan . Any type and amount of exposure to UV rays can be harmful as it is responsible for DNA damage which increases a person’s cancer risk. Tanned skin is damaged skin. In fact, any use of indoor tanning equipment before the age of 35 has been found to increase the risk of melanoma by 75%.



Myth: A tan protects you from the sun.

Fact: A tan offers almost no protection from sunlight or burning. And some tanning beds can expose you to 5 times more radiation than the sun. Getting a tan from a tanning bed doesn’t properly protect you from the sun.



Myth: Visiting the tanning salon is a good way to get my vitamin D.



Fact: Tanning beds are not a safe way to get your vitamin D. It is safer to get it from limited exposure to the sun, supplements and your diet. You don’t need a tan to get the benefits of vitamin D. In the fall and winter, a supplement is a much safer and cheaper way to get your vitamin D.



Myth: Having a tan is healthy.



Fact : No, it’s not. When your skin colour changes, it’s damaged and that can lead to premature aging and skin cancer.





Because indoor tanning is especially harmful to young people, the Canadian Cancer Society believes that:

People under the age of 18 should not be allowed by law to use indoor tanning equipment.

Indoor tanning advertising aimed at people under the age of 18 should be banned.

To help protect all Canadians from the harm of indoor tanning, the Society also believes that:

Federal, provincial and territorial governments should regulate the indoor tanning industry by requiring UV equipment to be registered, staff to be licensed and equipment and premises to be inspected regularly.

UV-emitting devices should be labeled in a way that clearly explains the health risks.



To read more about indoor tanning go to: http://www.cancer.ca/

The Canadian Cancer Society fights cancer by doing everything we can to prevent cancer, save lives and support people living with cancer. Join the fight! Go to fightback.ca to find out how you can help. When you want to know more about cancer, visit our website at cancer.ca or call our toll-free bilingual Cancer Information Service at 1-888 939-3333.

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

We've all heard that a glass of wine prevents heart disease and cancer, but just exactly how much is a healthy amount?

Click on the the following link to find out how much alcohol is a moderate amount!

http://cancer.about.com/od/preventiontips/f/moderate_alcohol.htm

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Relay For Life - We walk!

Thanks to Winnipeg Relay For Life committee member, Heather for taking the time to make this video about our Winnipeg Relay.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DwpB3vU0SU&feature=fvsr

Monday, February 22, 2010

Making a Difference

The Winnipeg Relay For Life committee is pleased to have local author and CCS suppporter, Kim Malchuk particpating in Relay For Life and all the events leading up to it this year.

First-time local author, Kim Malchuk’s riveting book, Tasting Rain, has been on Winnipeg’s Best Seller list 7 out of 10 weeks. Readers have voiced their opinions and urge others to read the inspirational, true story of how one woman clawed her way back to the land of the living; when forced to endure the untimely death of a soul mate, only to re-discover that life can once again be filled with hope and beauty that was thought to be lost forever.

Tasting Rain’s clear message is that it is possible to overcome tragedy and live the life of your dreams. One of Kim’s goals for publishing Tasting Rain, was to make a difference by giving back to those helped her in ‘their’ greatest time of need.

Kim proudly supports CCS and will be attending: Kick-Off Party, March 24; Survivor Reception, April 26 and Relay For Life, May 28th. A portion of sales from these events will be personally donated to CCS. To find out more about the book and the author’s bio, go to www.TastingRain.com.

Friday, February 12, 2010

Top 10 reasons to participate in Relay For Life

10) It supports ALL types of cancers. ALL over 200 types.



9) Because we want to beat cancer.



8) Remember loved ones lost to cancer by coming to light a luminary or walking in their honour.



7) It’s a family event for all ages. Bring your family, friends, co-workers, neighbours etc.



6) Because it’s fun! Karaoke, Bingo, themed laps, and costumes contests are all activities that have been done in the past. Come find out what’s in store for this year!



5) To celebrate a cancer survivor you know.



4) It shows those in the process of fighting cancer that they are not alone in the fight.



3) When else will you get an opportunity to camp out on the Goldeyes outfield?!



2) Because an estimated 6, 000 Manitobans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. 2, 800 of those will not survive. It could be your mother, your brother, your daughter, your grandpa...



1) Because cancer never sleeps...so for one night, neither will we.

Thursday, February 4, 2010

World Cancer Day


Today, February 4, is known as World Cancer Day - led by the International Union Against Cancer (UICC). Each year, over 12 million people receive a cancer diagnosis and 7.6 million die of the disease.

In Manitoba alone, this year, 6000 people will be diagnosed with cancer. 2, 800 of those will not make it. Acoording to the UICC, approximately 40% of cancers are potentially preventable.

The risk of developing cancer can be reduced by these measures:

- stop tobacco use and avoid exposure to second-hand smoke
- limit alcohol consumption
- avoid excessive sun exposure
- maintain a healthy weight, through eating healthly and exercising regularly
- protect against cancer-causing infections


You can do your part by passing on these messages to loved ones. The UICC has launched a campaign titled "Cancer can be prevented too". As a part of their campaign, UICC has come up with creative e-cards to help spread the message. These e-cards highlight six lifestyle changes that can help to prevent cancer and are available in English, French and Spanish. With Valentine's day almost a week away, it never hurts to send smoeone a reminder that you love them, while sending them a cancer preventative message as well.

To learn more about the UICC, WOrld Cancer Day, and their campaign, visit:
http://www.worldcancercampaign.org/

To view and send an e-card go to: http://www.worldcancercampaign.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=452&Itemid=819

Monday, February 1, 2010

What makes Relay For Life unique?

The Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life is one of the biggest cancer events nationwide. On May 28, 2010 Winnipeg will host its NINTH Relay For Life at Canwest Park –home of the Winnipeg Goldeyes!

What makes this event unique?

Relay For Life is an overnight non-competitive relay and involves teams of 10 people who take turns walking, running or strolling around a track. They camp out on the grounds of the track, enjoying entertainment, games, fun and camaraderie.

At Relay For Life, we celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost to cancer and fight back to find a cure! Three very special ceremonies occur during the 12 hours: the Survivors’ Victory Lap where cancer survivors proudly walk with pride having battled cancer. The Luminary Ceremony occurs at dusk when we light luminaries, bags that hold candles inside and bear the names of loved ones lost to cancer or acknowledges a survivor. They light the track all night, reminding participants of the true Relay For Life spirit. At sunrise, we hold our Fight Back Ceremony. We thank everyone for dedicating one night of their lives towards the fight against cancer, give people the opportunity to share their reasons for supporting our cause, and leave everyone with a reminder of why we fight back against this disease that has already taken too much from us.

Where does the money go?
The Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life supports ALL types of cancers. The funds raised through Relay For Life help the Canadian Cancer Society fund promising research, provide information and support services for people living with cancer and advocate for public policies that reduce cancer risk and improve the quality of life for those living with the disease.

Last year’s highlights:
The Winnipeg Relay For Life raised $355,394 in 2009.


The event included:
• 146 teams
• 1,138 participants
• 181 survivors
• 3,583 luminaries
• 225 volunteers



Where Can I sign up?
Registration is now open online at www.cancer.ca/relay
E-mail us at winnipegrelayforlife@mb.cancer.ca or phone us at (204) 798- 0884

Monday, January 25, 2010

Winnipeg Relay For Life participants and supporters never cease to amaze me!



Despite the fact that it's mid-January, a time when we're usually overcome with the "January blah's"; the fact that it's exactly a month after christmas today and we're probably experiencing "a holiday spending hangover" AND the fact that I know we've all been doing our part to help out the people of Haiti, we have not forgotten about Relay For Life!



Registration has been open since November and already we have 20 teams registered online! This is a record fo us. The leading team "Rockin' All Night Long" already has their 10 team members signed up and has already raised $830, that's 43% of their fundraising goal!



For those of you have have not registered already, you have a few days left before our early registration contest closes. Register 5 or more participants on your team before midnight on January 31st and your team will be entered in a draw to have your team registration fee* waived! So hurry up -gather your team, register online and get in the Relay spirit today!



For more information visit: www.cancer.ca/relay
email: winnipegrelayforlife@mb.cancer.ca
or call (204) 789-0884



* Registration fee must be paid online when registering. The winning team will have their registration fees reimbursed.