St. Mary’s students, staff aim to raise $70,000 for cancer research
Eager students and staff filled the track at St. Mary’s High School in Kitchener on Friday.
The Relay for Life run collects donations for cancer research.
St. Mary’s is aiming to raise $70,000 this year to support the Canadian Cancer Society.
Participants travelled around the track to symbolize the perseverance and action needed to change the future of cancer.
Organizer Shawna Kropf said it’s amazing to see the number of students participating and wants to celebrate their passion for the cause.
"I think cancer by itself is so scary, and I think that, for our students, we just want to remind them that when you come together and support each other, hope is there, and even when something feels scary like a cancer diagnosis, people are there to support you, that you’re not alone and we really want to teach our children and our students to advocate, and they can create change," Kropf said.
Relay for Life is an annual event that has been held in Canada since 1999.
PARTICIPANTS SPEAK OUT
Kevin Barratta said it’s been an emotional day. He was diagnosed with brain cancer but one year later, he is happily walking alongside other cancer survivors, with his family close behind.
“Quickly got diagnosed to see if we could get an MRI, CT scan to see the diagnosis. And sure enough, quick enough, the diagnosis said it was cancerous,” Barratta said.
His advice for others: “Don’t take life for granted do what you need to do that’s it,” he said.
Many who took part said the cause hits close to home.
“My grandma was diagnosed with cancer she unfortunately didn’t make it but I do this for her and for my family who has been so supportive for her,” said Nicole Godinez, a participant.
“My grandma is actually here today and she beat cancer twice she beat uterine cancer and she also beat lung cancer and it’s just so great to have her here for this event raising money to support a cause that’s deep to our hearts and to our family and it’s a great cause,” said another participant.
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