A TRIO of young women will be honouring the legacy of a friend who lost her battle with cancer.
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Kiama resident Ashleigh Collins died earlier this year following a lengthy cancer battle.
The 20-year-old had been fighting Metastatic Ewing Sarcoma, a form of bone cancer.
Ms Collins was an active participant in the Kiama Relay for Life, which raises funds for the Cancer Council.
Last October, Ms Collins was presented with a trophy in honour of her team being the highest fund-raisers at that year’s event.
She received so much support that ‘Team Ash’ had to be split into two, the teams raising in excess of $25,000 between them.
This year there is one ‘Team Ash’, but the combined effort has already raised more than $10,000.
Hannah Ragen, Olivia Russell and Bec Home have vowed to continue their long-time friend’s legacy.
The trio will raise funds for ‘Team Ash’s Relay efforts at a trivia night.
The event will take place on Friday, October 9 at The Pavilion from 7pm.
They also have a tribute planned for Ms Collins as part of the Hope Ceremony at the Kiama Relay.
Team captain Ms Ragen, 21, said Ms Collins’ passion for Relay for Life remained a major motivator.
“It was good, as it was something to focus on rather than being sick and having to get treatment.
“Cancer Council did a lot for her and her family, so she was keen to give back.”
Ms Ragen said even when it became apparent that Ms Collins wouldn’t make it to this year’s Relay, she was devising ideas for her friends to incorporate into their fund-raising for the event.
“Her friends want to carry on her legacy and everything she started, as we know that’s what she’d want,” Ms Ragen said.
“There was no question that we’d still do it or not.
“She’d be proud, she’d be stoked (with their efforts); our goal is $20,000.”
Ms Home, 21, also wanted to honour one of her best friends.
“I just feel she’s been there for me,” the Kiama resident said. “Even when she was battling cancer, I could turn to her and talk to her.
“I feel this is such an important thing to do.”
Kiama Relay For Life will take place on October 24-25 at the Kiama Leisure Centre.
Trivia night tickets are $30 each.
Organisers are also still seeking donations of prizes.
Phone 0413 979 599 to book, or donate a prize.
