Pretoria Gears Up for its Annual CANSA Relay For Life
The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) invites the community of Tshwane and surrounding areas to join the CANSA Relay For Life Pretoria event on 14 & 15 March 2026, from 18:00 until 06:00 the following morning at Tou Trek Park in Rietfontein. It aims to bring together the community in a display of unity and hope in the fight against cancer.
This overnight community event promises a powerful and heartfelt experience as cancer survivors, caregivers, families, friends, and supporters unite in the fight against cancer. Themed ‘Rising Together Against Cancer’, this year’s Relay For Life reflects CANSA’s commitment to promoting awareness, honouring those affected by cancer, and raising critical funds to support CANSA’s care and support programmes.
Marlene Jordaan, Volunteer Chairperson for the CANSA Relay For Life event, shares what makes this event so impactful: “It opens with a Survivors’ Lap – a celebration of those who have overcome or are still facing cancer. This is followed by a Caregivers’ Lap – recognising those who stand beside cancer patients throughout their experience. As night falls, we host a moving candle lighting or Luminaria Ceremony, where candles are lit in memory of loved ones lost and in honour of those still fighting.” Luminaria bags, which hold the tribute candles, are available as part of the entry fee and can be decorated with personal messages, photos, and memories. Bags will be sold prior to and at the event.
At the heart of Relay For Life is team participation. Teams of 10 – 15 people, made up of family members, friends, co-workers, neighbours, or community groups, commit to walking around the track for the full 12 hours, symbolising that ‘cancer never sleeps.’ A donation or entry fee of R1 100 per team is required, and teams are encouraged to raise additional funds.
The event is filled with entertainment, music and fun activities throughout the night. Day visitors are also welcome for R50 per adult and R25 per child under 12 years
To enter a team or for more information, contact, Event Chair, Marlene Jordaan – 082 462 0831 | marlene@jormas.co.za or Makoma Raolane on mraolane@cansa.org.za
Funds raised through CANSA Relay For Life help CANSA in its mission to educate communities, promote early detection, and provide care and support services. These include tele counselling, cancer screening, support groups, prostheses, wigs, stoma and wound care clinics, home-based care, and the hire of medical equipment.
“You can also support us by donating at the event, offering your time as a volunteer, or signing up your workplace as a corporate sponsor. Come and join the fun, cheer on the Survivors and Caregivers, enjoy the entertainment, and feel the hope and unity that makes Relay For Life such a powerful event,” concludes Jordaan.
(For more information, please contact Lucy Balona, Head: Marketing and Communication at CANSA at email lbalona@cansa.org.za. Call 011 616 7662 or mobile 082 459 5230.)
