No one felt the cold wind whip through Eastgrove Sport Field on Saturday night for the annual Hope Ceremony.
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Instead, families and friends stood in solidarity, celebrating the past and looking forward to a brighter future.
On the stage stood a small table covered in white cloth, a single empty chair and a rose. Goulburn Relay For Life committee member Mel Byrne explained that in some ways the set up mirrored cancer and its effects.
The small table represented the fragility of a cancer patient, sometimes forgotten or alone in their battle. The white cloth was laid for medical professionals who tirelessly search for a cure. The empty chair was for past patients lost but always remembered and the single rose echoed the enduring love from family and friends.
As the lone piper led attendees in silence around the field, some holding candles others glow sticks, the community was once again reminded that cancer was everyone’s battle.
Community Relations officer for Cancer Council NSW Kelly Dinnerville said the weekend went extremely well and thanked everyone who participated and volunteered for the events.
“Cancer Council NSW is truly grateful for all the support and the involvement by the community. Funds raised from Relay For Life go towards world class research as well as support and prevention programs which are run locally in Goulburn,” she said
Mrs Dinnerville also described the weekend as possessing an infectious feeling of hope and support.
“This is a time for the community to remember loved ones lost, celebrate those who have survived and fight back against this terrible disease,” she said.
“Just before the Hope Ceremony a rainbow appeared and it was amazing, a perfect end to the weekend.”
More than 450 people attended Goulburn Relay for Life at Eastgrove Sport Field over the weekend.
To donate or get involved in future Cancer Council NSW events call 4223 0242.