At just five years of age, Red Deerian Addison McMahon knows plenty about lending her hand to support local causes.
Addison is busy these days making key chains to sell in support of the upcoming Relay For Life, an annual fundraiser held in June in support of the Canadian Cancer Society.
Addison already knows that she wants to be a doctor or veterinarian when she grows up, because she wants to help. She’s enjoyed designing the keychains, and has also had some help from her little brother Ben, who is three. Ben likes to make hockey-themed ones, including some with Red Deer Rebels colours.
For the kids’ mother, Marni McMahon, it’s essential to develop a desire in her children to help contribute to community causes. “People think that what she’s doing is so awesome – for a five-year-old to want to participate in something like this.”
For Marni, her involvement with Relay for Life goes back a few years.
“About five or six years ago, I started participated with a Relay for Life team with co-workers and friends. When my kids came along, they always participated as well in one way or another.” This year, Addison said she wanted to join Marni’s team for the all-night, 12-hour event, which runs at CrossRoads Church on June 14, kicking off at 7 p.m.
Relay For Life is an inspirational, non-competitive fundraising event that brings folks together to celebrate life and fight cancer. Teams of 10-15 people fundraise individually and as a team to help raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society.
Teams gather and take turns walking laps all night. Each team keeps at least one member on the track at all times, while all around them the party is in full swing.
Officials say teams stay overnight in the decorated tent city, united to enjoy music, food, activities and entertainment and to celebrate life.
Meanwhile, Addison is excited about taking part in Relay for Life this year, both as a fundraiser and by taking turns doing the laps with her mom. She also has a knack for raising money for the cause. “She’s the only child on our team, and she’s raised the most money,” explains Marni, who works at Michener Services. Addision has raised more than $1,300.
Marni’s team is called Breast Wishes, and their theme this year is ‘Saving One Boob at a Time’, she adds with a chuckle. “We’re going to be super heroes.”
Marni added that it’s important for her family to take part in Relay for Life because cancer has touched their family. “It’s a small effort I can put in every year to do my part towards helping raise money for research and fundraising for cancer. When you are at the event, seeing everyone support each other and how emotional it is for families, how it brings everyone together – it’s just awesome to see. It’s a great experience. It’s a good time – even in the rain.”
The last couple of events has seen the team raise more than $8,000 per year.
To support Addision and Marni and their team, check out http://convio.cancer.ca or email emcmahon@telus.net.
For more information about this year’s Relay for Life, contact Nancy Kumm at 403-309-5432 or email her at nancyk@cancer.ab.ca.
editor@reddeerexpress.com
