As we all know, the East Kootenay is filled with generous, courageous and thoughtful people. Jonah, a student at Highlands Elementary is no exception and a reminder to us all the power of the human spirit.
Jonah is all set to take part in the Canadian Cancer Society's Relay For Life — especially the head-shave portion — on June 4 at Rotary Park in Cranbrook. He may be only 10 years old but he has always enjoyed donating to worthy causes and helping others.
Understanding how difficult it must be for anybody to be fighting cancer, regardless of their situation. Jonah explains that it just "simply makes him feel good that he can do his part to help."
His ambition didn't stop at registering for Relay For Life, he did a presentation at his elementary school in early April explaining what he is doing and putting forth a challenge to see if anyone else will join him in donating their hair. It was a great way to kick off the Cancer Society's Daffodil Month and show kids how they can help people facing cancer with something as simple as cutting your hair.
Any hair donated to the Canadian Cancer Society is turned into real hair wigs for cancer patients that they can use free of charge during their treatment. Hair donations are accepted all year round but are always a highlight of Relay.
"As of May 3rd, his fundraising has reached $1,045 which is outstanding," Jonah's mother said. "We are extremely proud of him and are happy to support him in every way."
We at the Canadian Cancer Society couldn't agree more.
If you would like to join Jonah and others in supporting people facing cancer, please register a team and join us at this year's Relay For Life. For more information on how to participate please visit www.relayforlife.ca.
Relay For Life is a great opportunity for friends, families, neighbors and co-works to get together and support communities members. Relay is a celebration of survivors and a tribute to the lives of loved ones touched by cancer. We are inviting all survivors to join us in opening Relay with the Survivors Lap to kick things off and celebrate your strength and journey.
Everyone is welcome to come and participate. Anyone who comes down to enjoy the event can also participate in the Luminary Celebration. Luminaries are candles placed in paper bags that line the Relay track. Each bag bears the name of a loved one who has either survived cancer or one who has lost their life to the disease. At dusk, the candles are lit in a moving ceremony where we remember and honour those touched by cancer, providing light and inspiration as participants walk the track at night. It is a special moment and a reminder that there is hope and light in fight against cancer.
Luminaries can be purchased and decorated at the event or at the Cranbrook Office of the Canadian Cancer Society any time before Relay. Luminaries are $5 or included if you register to participate.
The winner of the Disneyland Trip Raffle will be announced at Relay – get your tickets as they are going fast! Entertainment and food venders have been booked, and we are excited to be back in Rotary Park for Relay For Life on Saturday, June 4, 4:30 pm to 10:30 pm.
We look forward to seeing you there!