Relaying the message of hope

By Callan Date
A TEAM of Berwick residents is hoping to do its bit tomorrow as they take part in the Casey Cardinia Relay for Life.
Alison Cooper and a team of 40 local walkers have spent the past 12 months raising funds for The Cancer Council Victoria.
They will take part in the event at Akoonah Park under the banner of the HOPE Life Team.
Team HOPE (Help Other People Enjoy) Life have raised more than $10,000, with another $3000 their final goal.
“This is such a worthy cause to support as, unfortunately, we all seem to know someone who has had cancer and many people have experienced first hand how tough it can be to fight this disease,” Ms Cooper said.
Ms Cooper, a resident at Primelife’s Woodlands Park retirement centre in Kangan Drive, said she had received support from the wider community.
“The other residents at Woodlands Park have been great in supporting my team and Primelife has also kindly offered to sponsor us, very generously donating $2000 which will go a long way towards helping us reach our fundraising goal.”
The HOPE Life Team has also raised money by organising trash and treasure stalls, dinners, raffles and country music concerts.
They have also been busy training for the 24-hour relay.
“I have been doing a bit of walking to prepare for the event but am just thrilled to be taking part for the second year in a row,” Ms Cooper said.
“The event gives you a real feeling of satisfaction and there is such a great camaraderie amongst everyone.”
This weekend will be the fifth year the Casey Cardinia Relay for Life has taken place.
Funds raised will go towards the Cancer Council’s cancer research, education and support services to help reduce the impact of cancer on the Victorian community.
This year’s event will start at 6pm.
For more information about the event visit www.relayforlife.org.au.