Garry and Mary Ballard have a long history of supporting Relay for Life in town, as Mr Ballard attended the first event at the Muswellbrook Showground.

That year he walked all night, in honour of his mum who died of cancer when he was seven.

Over the years friends of the family have been affected by cancer – and have become inspirations.

In 2009, Mr Ballard was diagnosed with cancer.

“There have been ups and downs, but he is still fighting a good fight,” Mrs Ballard said.

Mrs Ballard said along with their three children, twins Lochie and Jacinta, 12, and Jake, 8, they are more driven than ever to raise awareness of the impact cancer has and the fundraising efforts of those involved with Relay for Life.

“This year is extra special because Jacinta and her friends Jess, Lucy and Charlee asked if they could make their own team to remember their great friend Rhylee,” Mrs Ballard told the Chronicle.

“They have done an amazing job at organising their team and fundraising.”

To date the team of 33 children and 11 adults have raised more than $3500 with donations still coming in.

The Ballard family will lead the Survivors and Carers lap, which officially opens the event tomorrow at 2pm at Weeraman Fields.

“It will be great on the day to enjoy the teams’ achievements and know that we have helped other people and raise much-needed funds,” Mrs Ballard said.

“The children are planning to stay up all night and have someone walking on the track all the time.”