Relay for life

Your columnist emceed the Relay For Life launch at the Manila Polo Club came at an opportune time in my life. For a person whose life has been touched by the struggles of loved ones battling the "Big C," I was only too glad to have the chance to help.

Relay For Life, dubbed as the "largest cancer control event in the world," is held in more than 3,300 sites across the US and in eight other countries. It has raised over $1 billion for cancer programs since 1985. In the Philippines, it is scheduled to be held this November through the efforts of the Philippine Cancer Society (PCS). It will be patterned after the relay held in the US; there will be a big overnight campout – a celebration of life – with music, bazaars, games, food and lots of fun.

No less than my good friend, the kind philanthropist and two-time papal awardee Imelda "Meldyco" Cojuangco, has lent her expertise in organizing charity events by being over-all chair of Relay For Life. Besides giving scholarships and aide to our less fortunate neighbors, Meldyco again shares her blessings through this noble project. Your columnist is also honored to be part of her organizing group, serving in my own capacity as team recruitment chair.

At the launch, cancer survivors, doctors, philanthropists, NGOs, pharmaceutical companies and other sympathizers gathered to express their full support to the event. The dedicated men and women of PCS (Dr. Roberto Paterno; Dr. Antonio Villalon; Adrian Ocampo; Dr. Kelly Salvador; Quintin Tan; Sylvia Palma; and Dittas Formoso) helped us understand our crucial role in this much-awaited event. Cancer survivors Kara Magsanoc-Alikpala and Cecille Alvarez, joined by her husband former Sen. Heherson Alvarez, also inspired us with their presence and inspiring words.

Forming teams to raise money for cancer advocacy, research and patient services was the main agenda, and many of the attendees already pledged to organize their own teams. Among those who immediately signified their help were Mellie Ablaza; Fortune Ledesma; Mercy Tuason; Evie Costa; Myrna Borromeo; Marietta Santos; and Daisy Payumo. We hope that you, too, will form your own teams and help us in our fight against cancer!

Join Relay For Life now!

(Interested parties may call 733-3485, 734-2114 and 734-2127, fax no. 734-2128 or e-mail [email protected].)