Wheeler's Warriors to storm relay

A warrior. Someone who is experienced in conflict or battle. Wayne Wheeler was a warrior in his fight with cancer.

This is how John Finn, team captain of Wheeler's Warriors, feels about the namesake of his team, Wayne Wheeler, who lost a lengthy battle with cancer two years ago.

Mr. Finn, who is close friends with one of Dr. Wheeler's sons and with his family, says it was only fitting that those close friends and family get together and enter a team in this year's Relay For Life.

"We will relay in honour of the late Wayne Wheeler who was heavily involved in the relay," he says.

"It's an event that seems to grow every other year in the community and it's a good bit of fun for a worthy cause," he says. "Everyone who has participated has nothing but good things to say about it."

Mr. Finn says he believes the Relay for Life is an important event because of the awareness it provides.

"It ties together the community ... everybody has been touched in some aspect or another by cancer. It's an opportunity for those to honour the ones who have passed away and honour survivors as well."

The team is fundraising from among its members and is looking at hosting a barbeque before the event itself. He says he personally looks forward to the survivors lap and luminary ceremony.

On relay day, Wheeler's Warriors will storm the field in honour of the late doctor.

"He was a warrior in his fight with cancer, he was a warrior in terms of being involved with the community through various things like the Chamber of Commerce, he was a warrior in his business ventures which were good economic generators for the whole region," says Mr. Finn.

"He is deeply missed by family, friends, and the community as a whole."

To make a donation to Wheeler's Warriors, persons can contact Stephen or Wanda Wheeler or Amanda Griffen at the relay office.

reporter@thegeorgian.ca