What do pirates, the muppets, snacks, and sports teams have in common? They signed up, grabbed pledges, and walked for Central Plains Cancer Services in the 24-hour relay. 

Beckie Verwey, a volunteer organizer, recounts the success of the event for the Kids Fighting Cancer Program. 

"We're blessed with this community, especially for this cause. What these kids face is so difficult, and this community is backing them, coming out, walking, having the energy and fundraising just a ton to help your kids."

With 40 participating teams exceeding their expectations, the event generated the best atmosphere that Verwey calls 'electric.' While the total funds raised are still being tallied, Verwey expresses her gratitude for the ongoing support from the Portage community and surrounding areas, emphasizing the community's generosity in participation and fundraising efforts and giving special thanks to the schools who helped out. 

"Thank you to each of the students at our participating schools who spent time walking or dancing and fundraising. We are so proud to see these schools involved in the relay." 

Looking forward, Verwey is committed to continuing the event based on participants' positive feedback and enthusiasm. She highlights memorable moments, such as the creative costumes and the community's unwavering support, emphasizing the impact that Portagers make. 

"Just the feedback that we received this year, just the joy and enthusiasm of the participants and their generosity, everybody was saying, 'How do we do this next year?' 'Who can we bring?' 'Can we have more people?' So, for sure, this will be a long-standing tradition for our community."