Cancer
Research UK held the second 'Relay for Life' at the National Sports Centre in
Douglas on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th August. It's a 24hr team based walking
relay and community fundraising event to support the vital work of Cancer
Research in the UK. 30 Teams entered which had tents/marquees in the centre of
the track. At least one member of the Team must be on the track at all times.
Start time was 12pm on Saturday and finished at 12pm on Sunday. 
Last year raised a phenomenal £44,000 which went directly to Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology where Isle of Man patients are treated. This year, money raised will go to CRUK Research and Oncology Centre in Liverpool, again where the Islands' patients are treated.
Survivors
of cancer, register and are treated on the day as VIPs! 12 members of the Group
registered along with others and we started the Relay with a lap on our own. It
was quite an experience as the Teams lined the track clapping as we went past.
We then went to the VIP Suite for a champagne reception with the Mayor. We had
the Suite for whole duration of the Relay so we could walk a few laps and then
go back for more food and wine!! We met a member of the Research Team who told
us that they are moving ever closer to finding a cure for this insidious
disease. 
3fm local radio kept everyone in great spirit with themed laps and fancy dress competitions. At 8.45 the Relay stopped for 15mins and there was a 'Candle of Hope' ceremony where anyone could write a message on a special bag which was then set out in front of the Grandstand with a tea light inside. In the centre of two doubles rows of about 300, plain candle bags spelt 'HOPE'. There was a minutes silence and we then all walked round reading the poignant messages written on the bags.
Later
2 live bands played and the Teams walked through the night. The Survivors led
the final lap at 1150 and closed the Relay. What a brilliant weekend. Roll on
2012 for the next one! 
