As a survivor, Relay For Life in Cessnock on October 14, 2017, is one of the very important dates in my calendar.

It is a reminder that I am a survivor, but that other people have not survived the battle and that we are yet to find a cure for cancer.

This year in Cessnock is the tenth anniversary since our first Relay For Life in 2008 – a very special Relay. It has certainly been bringing back many memories for me.

I am reminded of the loved ones from my family who have died from cancer, and also friends who have lost the battle.

Relay can be an emotional time for many people, but I wouldn’t miss it for anything because it is a reminder that we still have to find a cure for cancer and we have to keep battling this horrible disease.

This year is also significant for me, as I have finally come to the end of my treatment for breast cancer.  I have been in a trial for five years and I hoped that by participating in the trial, that I may have made it easier for someone else.

I dream of a world without cancer – how amazing that would be!

Relay For Life is a fun and moving experience that raises vital funds for the Cancer Council’s research, prevention, information and support services.

It is a chance for the community to celebrate local cancer survivors, patients and their carers, to remember loved ones lost to cancer and to raise money to help save more lives.

I encourage you to take part in this year’s Relay in Cessnock. I love being able to catch up with friends every year and walk a few laps with them.

It is also a very special time to honour those who have died. I lost my brother earlier this year to cancer and this will be a poignant Relay for me, but I find to be surrounded by family and friends that it helps me through the day.

If you are a cancer survivor or carer, we would love to see you on Saturday, October 14 at 10am at Baddeley Park to help us celebrate the tenth year of Relay For Life in Cessnock.

We will be holding a very special afternoon tea at 2pm for all survivors and carers. If you wish to register, just give me a call on 0432 611 802 or register online at cessnockrelay.com.

Take a look back at the 2016 Cessnock Relay For Life in the gallery below.