Celebrate.
Remember.
Fight.
Relay for Life is a huge and important event by Cancer Society New Zealand. Celebration of those who had or have cancer, and the incredible people who care for them. Remember the loved ones we’ve lost to cancer. And Fight by raising awareness and funds to help create a future with less pain, suffering and loss.
I got the opportunity to be a volunteer for Cancer Society in Christchurch, which is the part of the Canterbury-West Coast Division of the Cancer Society.
It became a big day in my little life. I could taste what it feels like to be a part of something important. When people serve a good cause together. They go hand in hands for each other.
It was a miracle.
People just go, and go, walk or run, and then again, and again, all day, round and round.
It’s like an endless prayer.
Various organizations are established, e.g. dance groups or schools who collect donations for the Cancer Society. They sell cookies, jams and honey, or clothes, do face painting. Music is playing from stage, people are dancing, everyone is smiling. Everyone feels that this is something really important now.
In the evening, by candlelight, there is a walking circle for those who are no longer with us. A silent march. The around 2-300 participants take part in a walk without a single sound along the path that has been trodden many times before. Again, for one last time.
Hugs. Connecting gazes. Smiles. Laughter. A celebration of Life, in the shadow of a deadly disease. “Celebrate. Remember. Fight.”
Relay For Life Christchurch 2024
I arrived with my family in New Zealand 6 months ago. Half a year abroad is a milestone, they say. Six months full of grieve and joy, tears and laughter, anxiety and peace, seeking for our place in the unknown. Will this country welcome us? Is it possible for us to start something new here? Far away from our home, far away from our loved ones?
My children and my husband: you are my heroes. We are in this together. You are so strong. You are incredibly persistent. You have faith.
This experience with the incredible workers of Cancer Society made me a feel like I somehow belonged. It takes time to take root. A lot of time. But these connected moments are gifts along the way.
I can’t say it enough: Thank you. Organizers, volunteers, all hard workers from Christchurch: thank you. And those who heal, those who care: thank you. You are truly heroes.
