A strong contingent from Relay for Life team "Sue's Crew: Treasured Chests'' will step out in the poignant first lap of the giant community event.
About half a dozen of the 30-strong team, including inspirational team leader Sue Graham, will take part in the Survivors and Carers Walk, which launches the 24-hour event on March 17.
A Dunedin career practitioner, mother of two and grandmother of five, Mrs Graham was diagnosed with breast cancer the day after her mother's funeral in October 2017.
She had breast surgery in early December, has undergone hormone therapy and this week started radiation treatment.
While hesitating to take on the title of "survivor'', as she is still undergoing treatment, Mrs Graham is keen to spread the word about the importance of having tests.
"I would say to people, don't muck around - get on and have your tests,'' she said.
"I often think how lucky we are to be alive in this day and age with the technology and treatment we have available.''
After deciding to take part in Relay for Life for the first time and launching the Sue's Crew: Treasured Chests team, Mrs Graham has been touched by the number of people who have stepped up to join.
"When times are tough, you need supporters around you,'' she said.
"So it has been really nice that, when I have talked to people about it, their eyes have lit up and they have asked to join the team.''
The Cancer Society has put out the call to people who have been affected by cancer - either as a survivor or as a carer - to attend the opening ceremony and walk the first lap of the Relay for Life.
The 24-hour community event, which raises awareness of cancer and funds for the Cancer Society, will be held from noon on March 17 to noon on March 18, at the Caledonian Ground at Logan Park.
To take part in the Survivors and Carers Walk, meet at the Cancer Society tent at Logan Park at 11.15pm to collect a sash.
The opening ceremony and first lap will be followed by a gathering with light refreshments.
People intending to take part in the first lap are requested to RSVP by March 10, for catering purposes. Email admin@cansoc.org.nz or phone 477-7447.
• The Sue's Crew: Treasured Chests team is fundraising for the Relay for Life, and will host a garden tour on Sunday, March 11, from 1pm-4pm.
• Tickets are available from Koru NZ Art in central Dunedin, and Embroidme at Portsmouth Dr, or by emailing sue@careerwise.co.nz.
BRENDA.HARWOOD @thestar.co.nz
