THE tragic heartbreak of cancer brought the Regan and Cronin families together like a modern day Brady Bunch.
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Members of the extended family will be among the 1400 expected in Timboon at this weekend's Corangamite Relay for Life.
Camperdown resident Judith Murfitt said her team, aptly named The Brady Bunch, would include about 50 people walking to raise money for cancer this Sunday at the Timboon Recreation Reserve, 26 of them members of the merged Cronin and Regan families.
"The mother of one family died of leukaemia," Ms Murfitt said.
"Her husband and my mum are now partners, and mum's had cancer as well, so we all walk.
"Everyone in the family has been affected and two other team members have had breast cancer, so we walk for them as well."
This weekend marks the fifth annual Corangamite Relay for Life, with 31 teams registered to take part on Saturday and Sunday.
Those not walking can enjoy a range of family entertainment, including a jumping castle, petting zoo, live music and other activities.
Event co-ordinator Naomi Young said the relay was shaping up to be another fantastic event.
"We're expecting about 1400 people over the weekend," Ms Young said.
"I think last year we had 35 teams, so a couple have merged and it's pretty much on par."
She said it was the first time Timboon had hosted the Corangamite event.
"When they started it they wanted to include the whole shire, so it's always been moved every year.
"This event has always been very big because the community has supported it from the very start.
"We've raised over half-a-million dollars in the four years it's run, so we'll be adding to that this year.
"Unfortunately, cancer is one of those things that touches everyone.
"One in two people will be diagnosed by the age of 85, so it's something the whole shire embraces and knows the importance of fighting back and knowing they can make a difference."
The opening ceremony begins at 4.45pm Saturday with a candlelight ceremony at 8pm.
The closing ceremony on Sunday will be held from 11am.
j.pech@fairfaxmedia.com.au