By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
ASKED what the favourite memory of his late uncle was, Ramesh doesn’t hesitate.
“Every day was the happiest day with him,” the Cranbourne resident said.
Ramesh Bector lost his uncle, Shaun, to cancer in 2013, while his best friend Karen also died from the disease in 2012.
It stands to reason that Ramesh didn’t hesitate in signing up for next month’s Cranbourne Narre Relay for Life at Casey Fields, in memory of those he’s lost.
“It was a big loss,” Ramesh said.
“I was depressed, I couldn’t get over that I lost my uncle – he raised me.
“We were very close me and my uncle, playing soccer, cricket, spending time together, and going on holidays.
“There was a strong bond between us.
“Seeing him lose his fight against cancer was painful.”
When he takes part in this year’s relay, Ramesh will have Shaun and Karen in his hearts.
This is his first time participating in the event.
Last year he watched the relay and was incredibly moved by the initiative.
“I looked at the thousands of people and thought why not me?” he said.
“I don’t have to be a cancer patient to take part.”
Last year $121,880 was raised at the Cranbourne Narre Relay For Life.
“I hope my story will encourage others to get involved and support Relay for Life to find a cure for all forms of cancer,” Ramesh said.
The relay will take place at the Athletics Track at Casey Fields on 7and 8 November.
Event co-ordinator Brooke Walford said the relay was an opportunity for local residents to “band together”.
“Celebrating cancer survivors, remembering loved ones lost and fighting back against cancer – we’re encouraging everyone – whether they were involved last year or not – to sign up for this moving community event,” Ms Walford said.
To join the Cranbourne Narre Relay For Life event, contact 1300 65 65 85, or visit www.relayforlife.org.au.
