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.

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.

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

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