Back to the Basics: Relay for Life North and Central Frontenac

Christine Teal | Mar 16, 2016

The Central and North Frontenac Relay for Life Volunteer Committee learned some lessons last year when they made some changes to how the Relay functioned, and found that some of those changes were not popular.

“We want people to know that we heard them,” said Christine Teal, a long-time committee member who is handling publicity this year.

“This year, we would like to get 'Back to the Basics of Relay - Community Style”, she added, “We can do this but we need people to sign up.”

Last year there was a $10 charge for entry to the grounds, but this year entry is free, although donations will be accepted, and for those who want to participate in the relay, the minimum donation is $15 this year, no matter when they register.

“But,” said Christine, “we need teams to register by May 1 in order to make the event happen - Currently there are five teams registered - with one being the Community team, Retro-Relay, so if someone doesn't have a team but really wants to participate this team is for them. It's easy – they sign themselves up online or email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and I will set them up. All they need to do is wear a Relay T-shirt from years past and black pants/shorts and all is good!!”

The relay crew is also looking for groups/committee/family of 10 or so people that have heard the dreaded C word. Now is their chance to fight back. They can register as a team for $15 each, and do their best to raise $150 (but no worries if they don't)

“And then come out on June 18 at noon to help us Fight the biggest Fight of our life!!!” said Christine, emphatically.

A small but mighty committee has been hard at work planning for this year's event – and they want the community to come out like before.

“Grab your lawn chairs, jacket, bug spray, sun screen and whatever else you need and come enjoy the great entertainment line up and be prepared to be amazed! We have such great talent in our community and to have them all available at one location is fantastic! There are activities planned for the entire day so please take part - together we can do this.”

Luminaries are on sale now and are a great way to honor a loved one who has had to fight this fight, or to remember a loved one who was lost to this horrible disease.

“This is the least we can do after everything that they have had to endure. For $5 you can help light up the track for the participants and you too can walk the track and be reminded of those loved ones. It is truly a touching part to the event and we encourage everyone to take part in this ceremony,” she said.

Luminaries can be purchased online or at Hope's Store in Parham or from Margo McCullough or Christine Teal.

Survivors, who are the reason the relay is held, are going to be pampered on June 28. Survivors can register with Penny Cota or Tracy Riddell.

To kick off the relay in true style the committee we will be hosting a Pancake Breakfast from 8 am to 11 am on Saturday, April 9 at Oso Township Hall. For $5 you can enjoy pancakes, sausage, coffee and juice. They hope to see you there.

“Remember, together we can make Cancer History,” said Christine.