BY DAVE MATHIESON
AMHERST NEWS
AMHERST, N.S. – With a goal of $50,000, fundraising is in full swing for the 2019 Relay for Life, and there are still many ways to make a donation.
“This year we thought we’d specify donations because people want to give but don’t know how to do so,” said Laura Ashley Farrow, Relay for Life chairperson.
The Relay for Life kicks off June 8 at 6 p.m. at Amherst Stadium.
Reception Tables
One way to contribute is to sponsor reception tables.
“We have 35 reception tables and its cost $50 to sponsor a table, and individuals or local businesses can sponsor a table,” said Farrow. “It helps provide the people sitting at the table the best experience we can give them.”
Taylor Ford, Allen Auto Group, Waldale are major sponsors if the Relay for Life, with, among others, Centennial Villa, Gables Lodge, and Athol Forestry, purchasing several sponsor tables.
Luminaries
Another way to donate the relay is to purchase a luminary.
“The luminary ceremony that happens during the event is a special time for the relay,” said Farron. “It’s a special time to reflect on those we lost, as well as to honour those who have battled cancer and are still living with it today.”
Luminaries cost $5.
“We have a decorating team that decorates them up nicely.”
People can purchase luminaries on the day of the relay or at the stadium on June 2 from 1 to 3 p.m.
They can also be purchased at the YMCA of Cumberland, Lawton's Drugs, Gables Lodge, and the Elmwood Beauty Salon located at 18 Elmwood Drive in Amherst.
Teams
The relay has 14 teams working to raise money to fight cancer.
They are planning to have about 150 to 175 survivors attend this year’s relay.
“A lot of the teams are quite large, which is fabulous,” said Farrow. “We know they’re working hard to raise awareness for cancer and for our event and their fundraising efforts are greatly appreciated.”
Theme
This year’s theme is ‘Survivor.’
“There seems to be a lot of positive energy and buzz around the theme of Survivor,” said Farrow. “It’s a chance to celebrate why we do what we do, and tie it into a fun journey.”
Farrow has met many people throughout the past eight years as a volunteer at the Relay for Life and says it’s a privilege to be the chairperson of the relay committee.
“For me, the relay is about being able to connect with survivors, caregivers, and participants,” said Farrow. “Everyone has a story to share, and over the years I’ve met wonderful people and learned their stories. It’s a really special event.”
The relay committee starts putting up decorations at Amherst Stadium on June 7.
Farrow says people who would like to help decorate are welcome to help.
For more information on how to make a donation or to volunteer call Laura Ashley Farrow at 902-669-1252.
