Relay for Life Laois returns to Emo Court

RELAY for Life Laois will return to beautiful Emo Court and Parklands next weekend, as organisers aim to reach a remarkable fundraising total of €150,000.

The 24-hour event will start at 1pm on Saturday 8 August and will end at 1pm on Sunday 9 August, with teams walking in relay around the clock to support a range of cancer services in the county.

Since it began in 2022, Relay for Life Laois has raised an average of €30,000 each year, raising an impressive €120,000 so far. The fifth annual event is on track to reach €150,000 this year for the Irish Cancer Society (ICS), with all funds raised staying in the county.

Laois sports star Lee Fitzpatrick, U20s Ireland rugby player, will host a Meet and Greet from 1pm to 3pm on both days to support the cause. Rugby fans are encouraged to bring along their Leinster or Ireland jerseys for Lee to sign.

As teams hold fundraising events all year round, the Relay for Life weekend is the culmination of their dedicated efforts, during a weekend of both commemoration and celebration for people affected by cancer.

The entire community is invited to take part, whether through joining the walk, making a donation or showing their support to the teams.

Ten teams taking part in the event are Mountmellick Macra and Mountmellick Community School, Team Teresa, Cancer Slayers, Frank & Walkers, Sue’s Crew, Dad’s Team, The Warriors Club, Cuimhin Linn and the Tommy Delaney Fitness Tribe.

As always, cancer survivors will step out for the first lap of the 24-hour walk, followed by afternoon tea on the lawns at Emo Court.

There will be live music and entertainment throughout the day, while Stradbally Community Choir will perform at the poignant Candle of Hope ceremony, which celebrates cancer survivors and remembers those who have lost their battle against the cruel disease.

Teams sell candle bags in memory of those who have passed away from cancer, who are currently going through their own cancer journey or who have come out the other side. These bags are placed on the ground to create a walking track.

The candle bags are decorated and may have photos of loved ones who have passed away from cancer. At around 9pm on Saturday, these are lit up to illuminate the relay track in a beautiful show of remembrance and support.

The money raised helps to fund a range of local ICS services, including a support helpline, night nurses, volunteer drivers, counselling and ongoing cancer research.

Fundraising events over the weekend will range from cake sales to raffles and carnival games, while Portarlington Women’s Shed will sell items they have crafted with the club.

Merchandise on sale will include a Relay for Life Laois calendar, featuring photos from past events.

The money from last year’s Laois fundraiser helped provide 259 nights of nursing, 477 free lifts to bring 54 patients to and from cancer treatment and 363 free counselling sessions for those affected by cancer.

For more information, see the Relay for Life Laois Facebook page or visit irishcancersociety.ie.