Introduction to Relay for Life at WOSS

Relay for Life, an exciting event that WOSS promotes annually serves as a way to raise  awareness for cancer research. The halls and classrooms are empty, and everyone is outside, walking around the track on this day!

The Annual Fundraiser

Relay for Life is one of the largest community fundraising events at WOSS, run by the Canadian Cancer Society The organization gives students the opportunity to take action by donating as a participant, or a general donation. This supports Canadians diagnosed with cancer, and  sends a powerful message of unity. 

Annually, you can have the chance to make a difference. When visiting the  Canadian Cancer Society’s website, you are able to sign up and join thousands of people across the country on their progress of raising funds, and supporting the cause. Unfortunately, the sign up is closed for WOSS, but this is a great opportunity to sign up for next year! 

On the day of Relay, all students are to meet up at the football field outside, and volunteers confirm if the participants are signed in. All students are excused from class. 

Each team (containing a minimum of five to a minimum eight members), has a captain, a name,and a specific theme for the event. Moreover, the teams have an assigned  space on the field, where they can place all their specific items,  (such as backpacks, tents, foldable chairs, snacks, self-provided games, and more). When everyone is ready,  the volunteers  lead the way through by an opening ceremony. Afterwards, cancer survivors will give a speech and begin a lap around the track. Throughout the field, a minimum of one participant is required to walk around the track at all times. Participants are able to swap their role at any time. . Barbeque and Krispy Kreme donuts can also be bought at the front entrance of the school, containing veggie and halal options.

The event is filled with fun activities, including self-made games that last for the entire school day. Volunteers are responsible for planning out activities for the participants. Some of the many activities happening this year, include Tug Of War, Baton Relay, and Red Light Green Light. These group activities increase engagement. Participants are also able to create memorable experiences while spreading the powerful movement.  

Throughout these exciting moments, prizes and awards will be considered to the teams that have the most laps around the track, best spirit and costume,  top fundraising team, most wins for the themed laps, and a general most fundraised, (by grade 9-12).

Joining Relay For Life  is a wonderful initiative to take part in. You don’t just show that nobody is alone towards individuals affected by cancer, but the donations provided brings treatment one step closer through the nation’s support system. The Canadian Cancer Society organization provides a website for donations, stories on the journey of individuals currently facing cancer, education about the risks, diagnosis, symptoms and treatments for a variety of cancer types. I highly recommend students continue to take part in this inspiring fundraiser, as it  provides a great opportunity to show you how much you care!