For 25 years, the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay For Life has brought people from across the country together for a festive fundraising event that shows solidarity with those affected by cancer. In each municipality, Relay for Life offers a walking route that symbolizes the perseverance of people who have had a cancer experience.
“Since the creation of Relay for Life, we have made major advances to save and improve the quality of life of people with cancer. It is estimated that 2 in 5 people in Canada will receive this diagnosis in their lifetime. Relay for Life is an opportunity to bring together communities from all over in solidarity, to give hope and collect donations that will make a difference in the lives of those affected,” underlines Josianne Béliveau, Director, Signature Programs at the Canadian Cancer Society.
Since 1999, Relay for Life has raised more than $610 million to help people with cancer in Canada. The funds raised finance innovative research projects on all types of cancer. The team of researcher Lee-Hwa Tai from the University of Sherbrooke, for example, is developing an immunotherapy vaccine against triple negative breast cancer, one of the most difficult types of breast cancer to treat. If this project produces good results, it would offer a therapeutic option that would help prolong and improve the lives of those affected. Donations also fund programs and support services and public advocacy with governments to close gaps in care and help create a healthier society.
“This year will mark my 16e year of participation in the Relay for Life in my region! For me, it is essential to participate as a way of gratitude to the science which is making giant strides, and which allowed me to have treatments which saved my life following my diagnosis of stage 3 breast cancer. I invite the population to be generous and participate in large numbers to support and give hope to people who are facing this disease,” mentions Dorothée Perreault, sponsor of the Relay for Life Rive-Nord of the Canadian Cancer Society.
The Relay for Life offers a unique experience that will begin with an opening ceremony peppered with inspiring testimonies, then be followed by a symbolic march, among others. The Luminaries Ceremony, a traditionally magical moment for participants, will pay tribute to loved ones who have been lost to illness.
The registration period to participate in the relayforlife.ca is in progress. The population is invited to experience action and emotion Saturday June 8, 2024. No matter where the Relay takes place, whether in person or online, thousands of people will come together to support the cause in their community.
