Relay for life - fighting cancer at the U of R

Posted: March 17, 2015 2:25 p.m.

Scene from Relay for Life in 2014
Scene from Relay for Life in 2014 Photo courtesy of U of R Photography

The campus community is coming together in a big way to help support a major cancer fundraiser.

Relay for Life is back at the U of R for the fourth consecutive year. The event begins the evening of March 20 and runs for 12 hours, with money raised going to the Canadian Cancer Society.

“I feel the relay is an opportunity to remember those we have lost and celebrate those who are fighting or have fought a battle against cancer,” says Breanna Hostin, a third-year Education student.  She’s co-chair of the Teams Committee with Amanda Tessier, a fourth-year Education student.

A record turnout of teams is expected this year, including Luther College, Social Work, Cougars Athletics, Student Affairs, UR Ambassador Program, Best Buddies, Filipino Students Society, and Kinesiology and Health Studies.

“For team members this is about staying up all night with friends, taking part in fun activities while supporting a great cause,” says Doug O'Brien, Advisor to the UR Guarantee program and one of the organizers.

Over the past three years participants and donors at the U of R have raised more than $103,000.

“We are proud of all the students who have volunteered their time or are participating in this year's event. It’s because of the Relay for Life that the Canadian Cancer Society can continue to do research, find ways to prevent cancer and support those who have been diagnosed with cancer,” says Keith Karasin, Executive Director with the Canadian Cancer Society.

The evening of events include a moving ceremony when luminaries are lit at twilight to honour cancer survivors and remember loved ones lost to cancer. The event is also a celebration of life and will feature bands, karaoke, improv, yoga and more.

Event:  Relay for Life
Day:     March 20
Time:    7 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Location: U of R - Gym 3 (CKHS)
Twitter: #uofrelay

To donate please visit their the Relay for Life website.