24 hours is a long time to run. Thankfully, each team participating in the Central Plains Cancer Services (CPCS) 24-hour relay will only be going for one hour per team. The event takes place in Southport on February 9th and 10th. Running hours start at 12 p.m. Friday going until 12 a.m. and then restarting Saturday morning at 8 a.m. and ending at 8 p.m.

Organizer Beckie Verwey says the event was born out of a family tradition.

"We do something special at Christmas time, in order to just help out in our community, so that's how we established our 24-hour relay out of the basement."

Verwey notes that there was a personal aspect to getting the event going in support of CPCS.

"We had talked about different possibilities, but cancer has been something that has affected both my husband's and my families. I lost my mom as a young woman, and my husband has lost his father as well. So, it's important for our family to give back in that way."

The relay raised $34,000 for CPCS and Verwey explains that a portion of it was used to help a local family in a time of need.

"Last year, immediately after the relay, we had a new child diagnosed with cancer, and that money was able to impact that family."

This year's event features prizes for best costumes, as well as live music to keep the attendees entertained. Verwey notes there are still some time-slots available if you would like to enter a team or as an individual.

To get involved, either by running or donating, you can call CPCS at 204-857-6100.

You can visit their website here.