Relay for Life: Brussels international community unites to combat cancer

Organised under the tagline ´Because cancer never sleeps, neither does Relay For Life´ - the upcoming 24 hour gathering unites a community of survivors and activists in a supportive, fundraising event that goes the distance.

Relay for Life began in 1985 when Gordy Klatt, a US doctor, spent 24 hours running laps around a track to raise money for the American Cancer Society. The following year he was joined by 340 supporters. Continuing to inspire people, the Relay now numbers over 6000 events in 20 countries worldwide.

In Belgium, one such event is the Relay for Life of the International Community of Brussels which this year takes place from noon on Saturday 30 May to noon on Sunday 31. Held in Brussels city in its inaugural year 2011, in more recent years it has found a home in St John´s International School in Waterloo.

Meeting with two members of the organising committee, Cindy Menache and daughter Michaela, their commitment to and enthusiasm for Relay for Life is engaging. Emphasising the festive atmosphere at the Relay, survivor Cindy comments “It´s a celebration of life and hope. I always say it´s about celebrating more birthdays.”

The Opening ceremony, the candlelight Luminaria ceremony at dusk, and the Closing ceremony reflect the threefold aim of celebrating survivors, remembering loved ones, and commiting to fighting cancer to find a cure.

Cindy speaks fondly of the teams who are the backbone of the fundraising drive. Numbering between 2 and 30 members, they maintain a constant and colourful presence on the track, with pink wigs, customised costumes and babies in strollers all part of the mix. In 2011, €27,000 was raised and in 2015 they are eager to surpass last year´s amount of €123,000 with a target of over €140,000.

She continues, “Survivors are the VIP guests, and the event seeks to celebrate the VIPs so food, pampering massages and wellbeing sessions like yoga are laid on”.  Dressed in purple T-shirts the survivors complete the first lap that sets the relay in motion.

Later as night falls the Luminaria Ceremony provides a moment for reflection. Michalea describes the powerful atmosphere, “That silent lap is so moving it gives you goosebumps. You really feel that everyone is thinking of a loved one.”

Under the umbrella of the Belgian Foundation Against Cancer, Relay for Life is popping up throughout Belgium. From a mere 3 events in 2011, it has mushroomed to 36 this year and is aiming for 50 by 2020. In addition to supporting cancer patients and prevention education, every 2 years the Belgian Foundation Against Cancer awards grants for research, with €17 million awarded in the most recent round of funding.

Cindy is eager for as many people as possible to get involved. She says, “everybody is touched by cancer and everybody deals with it in their own way. That is the beauty of Relay for Life - there are so many ways to participate.”

If you are interested in running, walking, entertaining or volunteering during the Relay for Life in May, visit their webpage or write to intl.community@relayforlife.be. Or check out the Relay for Life events taking place in other locations in Belgium from April to October.