Mr. Speaker, on June 7 I once again participated in the Relay for Life with teams of people who want to help beat cancer.
The Highland Valley Hoffers team, of which I am a proud member, raised nearly $18,000. I want to thank my colleagues in the Canadian Alliance caucus for contributing 1,000 of those dollars. In total, the relay teams raised an impressive $135,000.
This event would not be possible without the hundreds of volunteers who organize the event and the generous sponsorship of the Kamloops business community.
Personally, I walk in memory of my sister Doreen Buss and my girlfriend Laurie Benteau who lost their battle with cancer. I walk also for Ron Shindell, a neighbour I love, who will win his battle and join my colleague from Saskatoon--Rosetown--Biggar as a survivor.
Cancer can be beaten, and the people of Kamloops, Thompson and Highland Valleys will lead the way.