Dr Eugene Wong from Western University recognized

Canadian Cancer Society research dollars directed to advancements made by London doctor
The British Journal Of Radiology -- a very well recognized medical publication -- printed a recent story (June, 2013) about Dr Eugene Wong and his research at Western University in London.
The Canadian Cancer Society now honours the great accomplishments of Wong as it recaps some of the stunning cancer research advancements of 2013. Wong's work relates to controlling the metastasis of both liver and collorectal cancers.
Excerpt of story:

Advances in knowledge: An improved understanding of radiation 

dose–response relationships for primary and MET colorectal liver tumours 

will help inform future dose prescriptions. 

LINK:
http://www.cancer.ca/en/about-us/news/national/2013/top-canadian-cancer-society-research-stories-of-2013?region=on

A patient and their family find support at Canadian Cancer Society

Peer support important part of CCS services
From The Desk Of: TRACY BUCHOLTZ
Fundraising Coordinator
Canadian Cancer Society - Oxford Unit
(519) 537-5592

Over the past 10 years, the Peer Support service offered by the Canadian Cancer Society has helped 60,000 people to deal with cancer. Last year alone, 5,400 cancer patients and caregivers shared their experiences with a peer who had been on their own cancer journey. 

A recent study by the Propel Centre for Population Health Impact showed that the Society’s Peer Support Service has a positive impact on cancer patients and their families.

Some results from the survey:  

• 96% of those surveyed said peer support gave them a chance to talk with someone who’s been there
• 93% said it made them feel more supported
• 92% said it made them feel less alone
• 91% said it helped them cope
• 88% said it made them feel less anxious
• 84% said it made them feel more in control of their life

Read more: http://www.cancer.ca/en/about-us/for-media/media-releases/national/2013/peer-support-10-year-anniversary/?region=on#ixzz2n6tfvrq3

Learn more about this service by calling 1-888-939-3333 or visiting www.cancer.ca.

Relay For Life

To learn more about Relay For Life in Woodstock – June 13-14, 2014, plus background information on Oxford County events in Ingersoll (June 20) and Tillsonburg (June 6) as well, be sure to read other posts on this blog site. Many updates will appear as Relay approaches, including reminders about the Kick-Off Rally on Thursday, March 6 (2014) at Quality Inn (7 p.m.), the two captain's nights at Fanshawe College, background details about registrations, sponsorships, bank nights, luminary sales, volunteering, silent auction, registering as a survivor, entertainment, and the logistics of setting up the over-night camp at CASS.

To sign up or sponsor a participant, see: www.relayforlife.ca/woodstock or call the Oxford unit office at (519) 537-5592.

If you would like to contribute a story (Why you participate) or promote a Relay team fundraiser, send details to: mschadenberg@rogers.com. 

Celebrate . . . Remember . . . Fight Back

CONTACTS:

Sandy Smith

Relay For Life co-chair

Email: megzmom@hotmail.com

(519) 456-5270

Bob Axon

Sponsorship committee and co-chair

Email: raxon@rogers.com

(519) 421-0806

Deb Moss

Relay For Life co-chair

Email: mmoss905@rogers.com

(519) 539-2288

Tracy Bucholtz

CCS – Oxford unit fundraising

Email: tbucholtz@ontario.cancer.ca

(519) 537-5592

CCS assisting to find cure for many cancer diagnosis

Lung cancer research
Research and statistics from the Canadian Cancer Society (www.cancer.ca) note that 25,600 Canadians were diagnosed with lung cancer in 2012, and that the 5-year survival rate is only 16 per cent.
The CCS is working hard to raise money and support ground-breaking studies and research into both prevention and then finding a cure for lung cancer.
Another area to track is the number of patients who suffer from lung cancer and also other forms of cancer.
Dr Sheila Singh (pictured) is one Canadian researcher making in-roads and discoveries into finding answers that could lead to finding a cure. She is conducting her work in Canada, and actually at McMaster University.
The link to her story is below
Don't forget Relay For Life 2014 in Woodstock is June 13-14 at CASS high school.
Watch for updates on this site, and feel free to scroll back through other items previously posted here.
Facebook
You can also find us on Facebook on the 'Group Page' called Canadian Cancer Society's Relay For Life in Woodstock.

LINKS:
http://www.cancer.ca/en/about-us/our-research/fighting-for-life-on/fighting-for-life-6-on/?region=on&utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Post&utm_content=SheilaSingh&utm_campaign=FightingForLife2013

http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/lung/overview/?region=on

YouTube can be a great source for material

Cancer society video talks about 'ground-breaking research'

Another great video circulated by the Canadian Cancer Society to mark 75 years of "ground-breaking research", prevention, support services, awareness and commitment. 
Lots of footage from many Relay For Life events from across the country.
"The CCS is dedicated, committed and motivated to win the fight against cancer," says the video narrator. ". . . Together, we can change cancer forever."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwgNHq22Nn8&feature=youtu.be

Corporations / businesses recognized by Relay for contributions

Many rewards and benefits to sponsoring Relay For Life

The Relay For Life steering committee of Woodstock is grateful for its many sponsors – most support Relay every year and therefore assist in making the event possible as we raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society.

There are countless reasons why your business should consider sponsoring Relay For Life. 
Contact Bob Axon and his committee for more details at (519) 421-0806.
Corporate sponsors are recognized in newspaper ads, signage and banners around the CASS track, the night's program, websites, in social media (like this), and depending which level of donation/sponsorship you are at -- on the back of t-shirts as well.

Over the next few weeks, we will use this space and our Facebook group Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay For Life in Woodstock, to publicize new sponsors joining the ‘Fight Back’ against cancer.

By the way, another terrific contribution to Relay For Life is your time. We are always looking for people willing to volunteer. Contact the Oxford unit of the CCS today at 537-5592.

Background Info 

To learn more about Relay For Life in Woodstock – 2014, plus background information on Oxford County events in Ingersoll (June 20) and Tillsonburg (June 6) as well, be sure to read other posts on this blog site. Updates will appear in this space as June 13, 2014 approaches, including reminders about captain's nights, stories about luminary sales, sponsorship, volunteering, the silent auction, registering as a survivor, and the logistics of setting up the camp at CASS. 

See: www.relayforlife.ca/woodstock or call the Oxford unit office at (519) 537-5592. 

If you would like to contribute a story or promote a Relay team fundraiser, send details to: mschadenberg@rogers.com. 

Celebrate . . . Remember . . . Fight Back

Sandy Smith

Relay For Life: co-chair

Email: megzmom@hotmail.com

Mark Schadenberg

Public relations committee

Email: mschadenberg@rogers.com

Twitter: markroyallepage

Bob Axon

Sponsorship committee

Email: raxon@rogers.com

Tracy Bucholtz

CCS – Oxford unit fundraising

Email: tbucholtz@ontario.cancer.ca

Grand Desserts event is Oct 22 at Craigowan

CCS event includes sweets, cheese and a fashion show
Throughout the calendar, the Canadian Cancer Society's Oxford County unit has many fundraisers to participate in.
The CCS locally also requires volunteers for Relay For Life, door-to-door canvassing, and many other areas.
Later this month, it's the annual dessert-eating fundraiser at Craigowan. It's not too late to donate an item for the penny sale table, and it's certainly never too late to buy tickets.
Here's the poster:

 

Bob and Keri Axon are community champions

WOW magazine honours couple from Relay For Life

Many many 'Community Champions' have played a significant role in making Relay For Life the terrific fundraiser it is. 
Bob and Keri Axon have been recognized in this month's What's On Woodstock magazine for their long-time efforts to the Canadian Cancer Society and other local charities, causes and interests.
Keri was co-chair for the past two years of Relay with Kim Whitehead.

Standing up against cancer with lemonade stand

Whitby girls raising money for CCS

There are so many great stories about volunteers raising money for the Canadian Cancer Society.

Here is one about a 10-year-old girl from the Whitby area.

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CTV Toronto
Published Thursday, August 1, 2013 11:30AM EDT

A 10-year-old Whitby, Ont. girl is using her summer break to raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society, one odd job at a time.

Francesca LoGiacco, who recently launched the "My Summer’s Not Gonna Be A Bummer", has already raised more than $1,500 by doing a number of chores for people in her community and running a lemonade stand in her school’s parking lot.

Since last month, LoGiacco -- who has been blogging about her campaign -- has baked cookies for a senior’s home, feed cats and helped a mom walk her dog.

Some of the tasks LoGiacco suggests on her blog include: washing cars, pulling weeds, visiting seniors in long-term care homes, and flower pruning.

"I will do tasks asked by my donors … and donate all the money I have made to the foundation," LoGiacco says on her blog, which is managed by her mom.

The self-described "worker bee" has already lost five family members to cancer, including her aunt, two great-grandparents, her grandmother and her 21-year-old cousin, reports the Durham Region. (www.durhamregion.com)

"My heart was broken," LoGiacco told the newspaper, describing how she felt after the loss of her family members.

LoGiacco, who will be entering Grade 5 this fall, has been posting pictures of herself doing various odd jobs, as well as thank you notes from her "clients."

"Thank you for making me my cookies. It will help me recover faster especially since I can’t bake!" reads a note written by a donor named Jessica.

"What you are doing is amazing, raising money for cancer! You are an inspiration."

Read more: http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/need-a-hand-whitby-girl-fundraising-for-cancer-research-one-odd-job-at-a-time-1.1393546#ixzz2alsqtkb2

Book a trip to Alaska with Relay friends

Alaska cruise in August of 2014 to raise money for cancer society

Relay For Life is a great way for friends to bond together and raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society.

Have you ever thought that it might be possible to book a cruise to Alaska with a group of friends and raise money for CCS at the same time?

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CruiseShipCenters from Woodstock sets $20,000 goal

Total of 90 cabins booked by Expedia for Alaska adventure

By Mark Schadenberg

WOODSTOCK -- A vacation is a great way to go on an adventure of a lifetime, but it can also be an opportunity to enjoy time with friends, perhaps see the gold-rush heritage, ice-capped mountains, and the natural beauty of the north.

Planning a trip can also take a lot of time and energy.

A solution could be to take a vacation cruise with friends to Alaska, and now you can even make a contribution to the Canadian Cancer Society at the same time.

The Woodstock office of Expedia CruiseShipCenters has booked 90 cabins aboard a Holland America Line cruise ship (The Oosterdam) for Aug. 17, 2014 – for a seven-night cruise to Alaska.

A portion of the proceeds from each booking in the group tour will be donated to the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) and the Expedia office at 442A Dundas Street has set a target of $20,000 to raise for the charity.

Franchise partner Bill Shaw explained the fundraising idea began with a suggestion from travel consultant Elizabeth Ross, and evolved into the name Lean On Me Project.

“This is one way to recognize and support people going through their fight with cancer,” says Shaw. “We wanted to contribute to the local (CCS) because we also know the costs they have to run their programs, and we know the number of volunteer hours also involved in this organization.”

Shaw describes an Alaska cruise as one of the most returned-to destinations in the world. In other words, vacationers usually take a second cruise after enjoying their initial scenic visit up the west coast of Canada. The cruise will depart from Vancouver and has three price points depending on size and view of the room selected.

“The cruise offers an impeccable scenery, amazing wildlife, whale watching and glaciers,” added Shaw.

The one-year lead time is important as Bill Shaw notes many couples plan vacations with significant advance time.

Ketchikan, Skagway, Juneau and Anchorage are among the docking points. A second option for this vacation is to continue on a further four-day inland railway journey to Denali National Park, Fairbanks and Mt McKinley.

For additional details and breakdowns on the pricing, contact Expedia cruiseshipcenters at (519) 537-8333 or visit them in Downtown Woodstock.      

Provincial CCS video recaps why Relay For Life is important
Here's a note from the provincial organizing committee for Relay For Life:

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Thank you for making a donation in support of the Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life. Your generosity is helping us save lives and support people who are living with cancer right now.

This past weekend, at Relay events across the country, cancer fighters walked the track all night long to celebrate life and fight back against cancer. Cancer doesn’t sleep so neither did we!

Below, you will find a link to a video that shows how your donation is transforming the lives of people across Ontario.

http://convio.cancer.ca/site/PageNavigator/RFL_ON_ThankYou_Video.html?s_locale=en_CA&s_src=RFL_2013_ECampaign&s_subsrc=EMayVideo&utm_source=Relay&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=RFL_2013_ECampaign&utm_content=EMayVideo

Now that you have seen the impact of your support, we hope you that you will consider joining us at Relay For Life in your community next year. 

()()()()()()()()()

Keep in mind, www.relayforlife.ca/woodstock, this blog site and the Facebook group page (Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life in Woodstock), are up and running 12 months of the year. If you're on Twitter, check out the hashtag #WhyIRelay. 
You can research fundraising ideas and utilize these sites in your team recruitment efforts. Below are more facts and info on efforts by the Oxford unit of the Canadian Cancer Society.

Newspaper story captures thoughts from opening ceremony

Sentinel-Review story already online
Relay For Life was a success in Woodstock one more time.
Heather Rivers -- reporter for The Woodstock Sentinel-Review -- was taking pictures and many notes during the opening ceremony, so the Relay steering committee thanks her commitment to the Canadian Cancer Society fundraiser.
Heather's montage of slide show pictures posted online (www.Woodstocksentinelreview.com) includes a photo of the Harvards fly-over, which was perfectly timed at the end of the national anthem.
Quote from the story:
“It’s important to show support to the survivors,” said co-chair Keri Axon. “And to continue to raise dollars to promote research, prevention and advocacy.”
Many thoughts from Chuck Phelps speaking at the opening ceremony are also included in Heather's report.

     ()()()()()()()()
Instead or copying the story to this space, here's the link to The Sentinel-Review story as posted by Heather Rivers. (In the marketing world, we realize the newspaper has many online advertisers)
http://www.woodstocksentinelreview.com/2013/06/14/celebrate-relay-the-survivors-fight-back

Luminaries: "You Will Never Be Forgotten"

Luminary Ceremony included personal messages from Relay participants
A big 'thank-you' from Bonnie Hartley and Marie Bowerman and the committee organizing luminary sales and the Luminary Ceremony, which was held at 10 p.m. on Friday June 14 at Relay For Life in Woodstock.
This year's sales totals topped 1,900 again this year.
'Carnival For A Cure' was the theme -- so fun had its place at Relay too, but the solemn Luminary Ceremony is the highlight of the event for many.
Preliminary totals are at $284,700 for the Woodstock event.
       ()()()()()()
From the desk of Bonnie Hartley, as posted on the Facebook page 'Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life in Woodstock':

Many thanks to those who took part in the Luminary Ceremony last night and shared their memories with us: January – Shelly Ellis, February – Keri Axon, March – Carol Ewing, April – Hilary Hagen-Johnson, May - Joyce Tonner, June – Evelyn Hawkins, July – Emma Hagen-Johnson, August – Nancy Hawkins, September – Brenda D’Entremont, October – Bonnie Hartley, November – Sue Vitello, December - Carolyn Jackson. Thanks to Joyce Tonner and Diane Bialek for their beautiful rendition of the song "You Will Never Be Forgotten" by Jessica Andrews.
At the time of the ceremony we had sold 2256 luminaries which made for an amazing lighted tribute to those we have lost and to the growing number of survivors with us today. Thanks to the many volunteers who processed the orders - printing, packaging and placing each luminary. We could not do it without you.
And thanks to all who came out to support this fabulous event and walked that amazing 'highway of heroes' on a beautiful starry night.

Sentinel-Review story promotes CCS event

Reasons aplenty to be involved in Relay

This is the Page 4 story in The Sentinel-Review from June 13 edition:

By Mark Schadenberg

It would be quite a party if the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) could announce it had won its battle – a cure for cancer.

Relay For Life in Woodstock on Friday night will celebrate anyway with the 12-hour walk beginning with opening ceremonies at 6:45 at College Avenue Secondary School. Relay will celebrate the many small victories, including recognizing those winning their battle with cancer with the Survivor’s Victory lap at 7 p.m., immediately following the opening ceremony. 

Relay For Life’s local theme this year is Carnival For A Cure and among the activities will be a dunk tank to raise money for CCS.

“At Relay For Life, cancer survivors unite with their caregivers to walk the Survivors’ Victory Lap—the first lap of Relay—while other participants cheer them on. From the long-term to the newly diagnosed, this lap celebrates the lives of the people who have battled cancer and gives strength and courage to those still fighting the disease,” said Josie Atkinson, CCS Oxford unit fundraising coordinator in a press release.

Luminary Ceremony at 10 p.m.

The overall Relay theme continues to be celebrate . . . remember . . . fight back. The 600 (or more) participants will remember family and friends who have passed away from cancer during the Luminary Ceremony at 10 p.m. The track at CASS will be lit up by about 2,000 luminary tea-light candles purchased to both ‘honour’ someone still suffering from cancer or in ‘memory’ of those who died from the disease.

Luminaries can be purchased online at www.relayforlife.ca/woodstock or at many local businesses, or still at CASS on Friday. The format has changed this year as speakers representing each of the 12 months will tell their story and why that particular month is important to them.

Organizers all have personal reasons for getting involved. For Craig Ludington, who volunteers both on the logistics and food tent sub-committees, it was to honour a family member.

“It’s not just about finding a cure,” says Ludington. “It’s about all the emotional support, and it’s about the drives (volunteer drivers) for treatment, and all the literature and information. That’s why I continue to support Relay.”

Ludington explained it was first the diagnosis of an uncle, and later over the past 10 years, his dad’s battle with cancer.

“If anyone has never seen it before, they should go to the luminary ceremony,” continued Ludington, who is owner of Woodstock Print & Litho, which supplies sponsorship signage seen around the CASS track and also hosts a major fundraising barbecue.

The Relay accounting department – balancing the money submitted from the various teams – is coordinated by volunteer Sandy Smith, who witnessed her dad’s battle versus cancer.

“He received treatment for 10 years. After 10 years, the research advances made the treatment light years better. There is improved meds and improved chemotherapies. I could see how the treatments were tailored to him.

“Every dollar spent on research is leading to more improvements in care.”

Smith says the strength and dedication of the local CCS unit, volunteers and Relay participants has kept her involved year after year.

“We live in an amazing community and we receive a lot of support from this community.”

Fondly Remembering

Reasons to be involved in Relay For Life are as varied as the number of participants. Among my reasons, is my step-father losing his battle with cancer just one day after my daughter was born. I remember John VanVeen and celebrate his life with a luminary around the CASS track. I fight back, by participating in Relay For Life.

Last edition of Relay News is must-read

Newsletter is a complete update for Relay For Life
The countdown to 2013 Relay For Life in Woodstock is certainly on !
The agenda is set and the race to see which team will be announced as Dream Team is in the stretch run !
The final Relay News newsletters before Relay For Life have been produced. Looking for more details then what you see here, be sure to see Facebook: "Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life in Woodstock' group page.

Axon, Atkinson promote Relay on Rogers TV

What's Up Oxford? 
While Relay For Life in Woodstock is this weekend (June 14-15), the Tillsonburg event took place June 7-8, and the Ingersoll Relay is at IDCI, June 21-22.
Here's a link to a Rogers TV interview on What's Up Oxford with Josie Atkinson (fundraising coordinator for CCS Oxford unit) and Keri Axon (co-chair of Woodstock Relay).
Josie Atkinson (pictured) talks about the Luminary Ceremony and buying 'virtual luminaries' which are posted online.

http://www.rogerstv.com/page.aspx?lid=237&rid=15&sid=5130&gid=113991

Email reminder from CCS; Countdown to Relay

Don't forget to bring your camera

If you are registered to receive automatic email updates from Relay For Life and the Canadian Cancer Society, you would have received this reminder today.

It's a friendly last-minute note to assist in fundraising and also includes a list of what you need to bring with you to CASS on Friday night (June 14) for Relay For Life.

     ()()()()()()()()()()

Dear Relay Participant:

Are you ready to Relay? In just a few days, you will join with your community to be part of an amazing global movement and an incredible local party!

This year’s Relay For Life in Woodstock 2013 is this Friday at College Avenue Secondary School. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. If you need directions, please view the map.

Before you give 12 hours to the fight against cancer, we wanted to share some information to help you make the most out of Relay:

Last Minute Fundraising

• If you haven’t reached your fundraising goal, log in to your participant centre and start sending e-mails!
• Send e-mails to those friends and family who have yet to make a donation and tell them how soon the event is they may just have forgotten to make a pledge and will appreciate the friendly reminder.

What To Pack

• A tent, chairs, sleeping bags, blankets
• Sunscreen and bug spray
• Personal toiletries
• Extra and comfortable clothing (remember: it can get chilly overnight!)
• Flashlights, camping light
• Camera
• Cooler for drinks, snacks, etc. While food is provided at the event, you may want to coordinate with your team captain and bring snacks to keep you going through the night
• Money to purchase luminaries
• Campsite decorations

What Not To Pack

• Please remember that alcohol, smoking and open fires are not permitted at Relay.

We will Relay come rain or come shine! Don’t forget to check the weather before you come and make sure you have appropriate clothing.

We look forward to seeing you at the event. Get ready for a truly inspirational night!

Thank you again,

Canadian Cancer Society
Relay For Life volunteers and staff

What's Up Oxford! Relay For Life

Talking on TV to promote Relay
Do you get nervous if asked to appear on a TV show?
The Relay For Life steering committee has been busy promoting the June 14-15 event recently on Rogers TV locally.

Watch Rogers TV on Thursday (June 6) at noon, 12:30, 10 p.m., 10:30 (What's Up Oxford show) and other times for appearances by Bob Axon and Megan Porter to promote Relay.
Then, on Tuesday, June 11, our co-chairs Keri Axon and Kim Whitehead will be on the show encouraging survivors to attend Relay and discuss many other last-minute updates and the night's format, such as a new idea for the luminary ceremony (10 p.m.) this year.
The show is hosted by Chris Cunningham, who is also a committee member.
                                                                       Keri Axon

                                                                    Kim Whitehead

Here is a link to a previous appearance by Chuck Phelps. http://www.rogerstv.com/page.aspx?lid=237&rid=15&sid=5130&gid=111282

Fundraising ideas and activities abound

Motivational emails contain good information
Participants of Relay For Life know about the slogan: celebrate . . . remember . . . fight back.
If you're busy collecting pledges or raising dollars through a bbq, you know the importance of this Canadian Cancer Society fundraiser.
However, it's always great to receive reminders from www.relayforlife.ca
Here is the first half of one email I received today:
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Dear Relay Participant,

After months of preparation and fundraising, your Relay For Life is just two weeks away. At Relay, you will join with your team, on the track and in tent city, to enjoy music, food, activities, entertainment and to celebrate life.

As you look ahead to the inspirational journey ahead of you, we want to help you make the most of your Relay.

• By now you have a team name, but have you thought about a theme, costumes and decorations? Be creative and show us your team spirit!
• Relay isn’t just about walking the track. It’s a party complete with activities that will get your team moving and laughing. Participate in the planned activities together or plan special activities for you and your teammates throughout the night.
• While your team needs to keep one member on the track at all times, why not plan special team laps throughout the night. What about a backwards team lap? Or a potato sack race lap?
• Start building excitement now. Get together with your team sometime in the next two weeks to get everyone energized and brainstorm last minute fundraising ideas. 

()()()()()()()()()()
There's lots of motivational material out there. See: www.relayforlife.ca/woodstock or even other CCS sites such as www.fightback.ca or www.thefearlessproject.ca

Important: New format for luminary ceremony

Luminary Ceremony requires additional volunteers

From the desk of: Bonnie Hartley

Still looking for Volunteers for the Luminary Ceremony

Hi:
I have been chosen to create the Luminary Ceremony at this year's Relay for Life on June 14. I'm hoping that you'll agree to take part in it.
I am creating a 'year of memories' and need 12 volunteers. They can be care givers, people currently going through chemo, those in remission, those who have lost someone etc. -- and a mix of ages too. Ideally I'd like the people to write their own 'memory' but here are a few that I wrote to give you an idea of what I'm looking for:

It’s January, another new year celebrated without you here. I still miss you every day.
It’s February, this month marks 5 years that I am cancer free and I am so proud of my achievement.
It’s March, I’ve just had the last of my chemo treatments. I am so thankful for the volunteers who have driven and supported me through this.
It’s April ….
The ceremony will take about 20 minutes tops and you’ll be asked to carry a luminary and follow the Piper for the first lap along the lighted path (at 10 p.m.)
Please let me know if you’d be willing to join is this ceremony, and/or if you have any suggestions as to others who might like to participate. If you have a month that is significant to you, let me know that as well.
Thanks,
Bonnie Hartley
(519) 537-5836

Keep an eye on the Facebook group page (Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life in Woodstock) update for this luminary ceremony format change as well.

Liz Wismer plans drive-thru pledge morning

Heart FM news room news
Great news from the news room of Heart FM today!
Woodstock radio station 104.7 FM will again this year be hosting its drive-thru pledge-a-thon for Relay For Life (Canadian Cancer Society) in Woodstock. The event during the John and Liz morning show will be June 7.
Liz Wismer has been a long-time participant in Relay For Life and is captain of the team Girlz Night Out, which has a $7,000 team goal.
Here's her press release, which also promotes the Woodstock Print & Litho lunch bbq that day. The barbecue price, by the way, is $5 including a drink.

                 ()()()()()()()()

Again this year, I will be walking in the Woodstock Relay for Life.  Below is a link to make a donation online; you can also make a donation here at Heart FM during the 6^th Annual Drive Thru Pledge-a-thon on Friday June 7, between 6 am – 9 am. 

There is also a charity BBQ event at Woodstock Print & Litho June 7, from 11 am – 2 pm, which I encourage you to come out and support, and grab a hot dog or burger courtesy of Todd’s Dogs!

I set my goal big again this year…$4,000 so I need your support!

I thank you in advance and appreciate every dollar we can put towards the Fight Against Cancer !!!

Link: http://convio.cancer.ca/site/TR?px=3768006&pg=personal&fr_id=12488&fl=en_CA&et=l9HG6JGRPkrv61UabUvHCw&s_tafId=217444

Liz (Wismer) Van Meer

Morning Show Host/News

223 Norwich Ave. Woodstock, Ont. N4S 3V8

Office: 519-537-8400 ext. 232

News room: 519-537-8040

From Liz Wismer: "Again this year, I will be participating in the Woodstock Relay for Life in support of the Canadian Cancer Society.  I first got involved to pay tribute and honour my Nana who we lost to cancer on November 28, 1997 (just six weeks after she was diagnosed).  Since my first relay about 10 years ago, many more names have been added to the list of people I relay for!  Some are survivors; some are fighting the fight as I write this and others are our loved ones we lost to this horrible disease.

This year I hope to raise $4,000 on my own as the Team Captain of Girlz Night Out!  We have relayed together now for five years and I hope that we together can raise $7,000.  Please help me and my team reach our goal; help our loved ones who are fighting cancer; help us celebrate our loved ones who are survivors and help us remember our loved ones we've lost.
I walk to Remember Nana and those we have lost; I walk to Celebrate Tracey and all of the survivors; and I walk to Fight Back with all those fighters.
I thank you in advance for your support."

Barbecues, baked goods & yard sales

Relay For Life events leading up to the main event

I’m currently busy helping you set your social calendar.

- Allen (Lumber) Building Centre (Castle) on Peel Street is a long-time sponsor for Relay For Life and currently they are celebrating their 50th anniversary in Woodstock and Oxford County. Enjoy their Relay Canadian Cancer Society barbecue on Saturday, May 18, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 

- On Saturday, May 25, west of Woodstock at 684743 Highway 2 (Between 11^th and 10^th Line) is the huge Fightback Bears yard sale. It begins at 8 a.m. and includes: bake sale table, lots of household items, baby items, books, clothing, toys . . .
- Fight Back Bears are also having a BBQ on Sat. June 1st with great singing entertainment, hot dogs, hamburgers salads, desserts, coffee, tea, pop and water. . . 50/50 draw, door prizes and raffle draws . . .
Where: 684743 Hwy 2 west of Woodstock

- Saturday, June 1 will be a busy day as The Rack Pack team is having its annual bbq and bake sale in the Cedarwood Plaza parking lot. The Hear Med store is next to CIBC and the sale begins at 10 a.m. and continues until 2 p.m. Besides hamburgers, hot dogs and home baked goods, this event includes the sale of the popular ‘Tougher Than Cancer’ t-shirts for $20 each. Linda thanks the many sponsors – notably M&M Meats, Miss Woodstock Restaurant and Dawson Market. Live entertainment will feature tribute act Happy Johnson.

- Also on June 1, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., the Hickson Village People team are holding a garage sale and bbq at 92 Loveys St, Hickson.

- If you attend the farm market at Woodstock Fairgrounds on June 1 and 8, plus May 25, be sure to purchase your luminaries for 2013 Relay For Life. Each luminary is $5.

- Friday, June 7 at 11 a.m. is the annual Woodstock Print & Litho (Springbank Ave South) bbq which features Todd’s Dogs of Woodstock. Burgers and hot dogs and much more. Pre-order by calling Woodstock Print at 519 537-6239.

If you have an event to add to this list, email: mschadenberg@rogers.com

Read the Relay Rap update newsletter

May newsletter is a must-read
Often a 1-page newsletter is a great method to update participants of an event quickly.
The Relay For Life steering committee currently has posted on Facebook (Group Page is: Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life in Woodstock) several information pieces and newsletters (Relay Rap as a pdf), including a request for additional volunteers to assist in the luminary ceremony at 10 p.m. during Relay on Friday, June 14 at College Avenue Secondary School.
Team recruitment news includes a reminder for Captain's Night on Wednesday, May 15 at 6:30 at Fanshawe College, but adds that the Relay's menu is complete with a choice between Boston Pizza and Swiss Chalet.
If you're thinking about participating in Relay For Life for the first time, check out the Facebook page, but you can also call myself anytime (Mark Schadenberg at 519 537-1553) or others listed on various submissions on this site.

Relay For Life

Celebrate . . . Remember . . . Fight Back

www.relayforlife.ca/woodstock

  

Captain's Meeting set for May 15

Important organizational meeting at Fanshawe College
Beth Boulard and the team recruitment sub-committee for Relay For Life have an important agenda typed up and ready for the next Captain's Night meeting on Wednesday, May 15 at 6:30 at Fanshawe College campus on Finkle Street in Woodstock.
The annual Relay For Life for the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) is June 14-15 at College Avenue Secondary School, so quite obviously Wednesday marks the 1-month deadline to motivate teams and sign up as many participants as possible. The goal is 68 teams.
With Boston Pizza on board as event sponsor, the team recruitment committee has a new corporate friend to assist in both attracting new teams and retaining past teams. Megan Porter and her Boston Pizza (431 Norwich Ave in Woodstock) crew are contributing a special team promo package. 
The Captain's Meeting is important as teams are suggested to register well in advance, but also select a camp site, set up their bank night schedule, and acquire many motivational tips and fundraising ideas. Captains learn about something new this year -- a captain's lap at midnight to recognize this integral group of volunteers. 
May 15, 6:30 p.m. at Fanshawe College
If you visit the Facebook page 'Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life in Woodstock', you can read many of the newsletters already posted on-line. Be sure to become a 'member' of our Facebook group. For example, the menu featuring Boston Pizza, Swiss Chalet, Tim Hortons, and Scott's No Frills has already been posted. Keep in mind, if you're a team member this year, maybe next year you will want to be a team captain.
A Dream Team
There is also something called a "Dream Team' and you can learn about the parameters about reaching this level of participation.

Contact Beth Boulard -- team recruitment committee: ebaboulard@rogers.com . . . or call the CCS office weekdays at (519) 537-5592.




      

Why is Relay For Life an all-night event ?

7 a.m. to 7 p.m. -- an overnight benefit
Relay For Life is many things.
The Canadian Cancer Society fundraiser obviously raises important dollars to find a cure. The Woodstock event last year contributed a final total over $310,000. This year, $320,000 is a natural goal.
Relay For Life is 12 hours of friendship and following. Relay is remembering those who have died from cancer and celebrating with those who are winning their battle.
However, why is Relay For Life a 12-hour overnight benefit.

Summary

To learn more about Relay For Life in Woodstock, plus background information on Oxford County events in Ingersoll (June 21) and Tillsonburg (June 7) as well, be sure to read other posts on this blog site. Updates will appear in this space as June 14 approaches, including reminders about captain's nights at Fanshawe College (May 15, 6:30), stories about luminary sales, sponsorship, volunteering, the silent auction, registering as a survivor, and the logistics of setting up the camp at CASS. 

To sign up or sponsor a participant, see: www.relayforlife.ca/woodstock or call the Oxford unit office at (519) 537-5592. 

If you would like to contribute a story or promote a Relay team fundraiser, send details to: mschadenberg@rogers.com. 

Kim Whitehead

Relay For Life: co-chair

Email: kimw_1@sympatico.ca

Keri Axon

Relay For Life: co-chair

Email: keriaxon@gmail.com

Mark Schadenberg

Public relations committee

Email: mschadenberg@rogers.com

Twitter: markroyallepage

Beth Boulard

Team recruitment committee

Email: ebaboulard@rogers.com

Bob Axon

Sponsorship committee

Email: raxon@rogers.com

Janet Bragg

Relay For Life Volunteer coordinator

Email: janet@goodbeginningsday.com

Josie Atkinson

CCS – Oxford unit fundraising

Email: jatkinson@ontario.cancer.ca