Tales of loved ones who died too soon, of relatives whose torment went on too long and of life-long friends who never should have said goodbye. 

Albury’s Joss is no different, with staff preparing to walk to raise awareness, spirits and money through the Border’s Relay for Life. 

First-time Relay for Life committee member Leigh Parkinson still remembers when he first learnt the harsh reality of cancer and loss.

“Over the years I have lost a number of family members to cancer, the one that sticks in my mind is that of my beloved Grandfather Jim,” he said.

“I was 12 when ‘Pa’ succumbed to lung cancer, there was little to no support outside of your family those 32 years ago.

“After the funeral I remember the adults all consoling my grandmother and each other whilst I found a corner, alone and sobbing knowing I would not grow up with Pa.”

This year is especially poignant for Mr Parkinson who will be completing the relay alongside his wife, Megan, and their son, in honour of Megan’s late-father. 

“We want to make a difference, to help everyone reach a bigger goal,” he said.

“To hopefully give a better quality of life to people who are unfortunately struck down by cancer, and really the end goal is a cure.”

Colleague and fellow X-Ray relay team member Leigh Richardo said she was inspired to get involved 10 years ago after the death of her best friend, who had pancreatic cancer. 

“Unfortunately cancer doesn’t go away, it just keeps coming back, so we do too,” she said.

Carolyn Corcoran’s first relay experience four years ago was incredibly emotional and inspiring

“My mother had cancer and I just cried,” she said.

“Seeing the survivors doing laps it was so emotional and powerful.

“There’s so much support locally it’s completely overwhelming.

“It’s also just good fun, and we’re all there for the same purpose.”

Mr Parkinson said unfortunately cancer was an all too common part of everyone’s life, but the response from the region was amazing with Albury-Wodonga having one of the highest number of participants and highest money raised across the country.

The relay is two weeks away and teams can register via the Border Relay For Life website relayforlife.org.au/border until next Friday, or onsite on the day. 

People wanting to participate who don’t have a team can select ‘Friends of Relay’ as their team during registration to participate.