Best feet forward for Relay for Life
If you see native Americans, Dr Seuss characters and disco dancers walking in endless circles today, don’t fret for your sanity just yet.
They’re all participating in this year’s “Relay for Life” at the National Sports Centre — a 24-hour fundraiser for cancer prevention, detection and treatment.
The third annual event kicked off at 6.30pm yesterday and sees teams continually walking around the North Field’s athletic track. Organisers hope to raise $600,000 this year, with 95 per cent of proceeds going to the Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre and the remaining five per cent to Global Relay For Life in the United States. The previous two events have rustled up a combined $1 million.
Tents are dotted along the track, offering everything from raffles and bake sales to ball games and AIG’s “selfie station”, all to help swell the charity coffers.
Judith Uddin began the “Rock Stars” tent after she was diagnosed with colon cancer three years ago, with the name inspired by her daughter’s continued encouraging words during that difficult time.
Among the activities on offer under the tarpaulin are a silent auction and a “mystery wine grab”.
“It’s a community event with great camaraderie, plus you learn a lot. It’s phenomenal,” said Mrs Uddin, a Southampton native whose cancer is now in remission.
Jay Correia, co-owner of The Swizzle Inn, is part of the 20-strong “Super Swizzlers” team which includes his mother, also a cancer survivor.
“We’re looking to raise as much money as we can, and we’re excited that most of the money helps cancer survivors and patients in Bermuda,” he said.
“We’ve raised around $23,000 so far this year. Our target is $30,000, and we’re going to get there.”
Kellianne Smith is part of the Argus team, which has 62 people participating and has raised $5,000 so far this year.
“It’s a worthy cause and we enjoy reaching out to help the community,” she said.