Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life

Canadians celebrate, remember and fight back and raise over $52.6 million to fight cancer in 2009

The first Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life event in Canada raised $85,000 in 1999. Since then, the number of Relay events and participants have steadfastly increa
sed to reach its eleven-year milestone in Canada– raising over $52 million at 474 events across Canada.

Canadians from coast to coast have come together to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones and fight back against the disease, while raising vital funds for the Canadian Cancer Society.

This inspiring, community-based event is an overnight non-competitive relay involving teams of 10 people who take turns walking, running or wheeling around a track. Teams demonstrate how a community can come together to support its members, which include families, friends and corporations.

Each team camps out on the grounds of the track, enjoying entertainment, and sharing in a camaraderie that provides inspiration, strength, courage and hope to all those touched by cancer.

View the new Relay For Life promotional video, featuring Nelly Furtado’s song Forca.

In 2009, over 207,000 Canadians participated in Relay For Life events, making up 21,135 teams.

Last year, 38,479 cancer survivors were involved in Relay, and they presented a living inspiration for all participants. We salute the thousands of Canadians who have made Relay a successful and inspiring event. In 2009 alone, more than 44,000 volunteers gave their time to support Relay For Life in communities across Canada.

All of the individuals and teams who have been involved in Relay have truly made a difference in the fight against this disease that touches so many loved ones.

Join together with your community for 12 hours of fun, friendship and fundraising to beat cancer. Experience the excitement of being part of the largest nationwide fundraising event. Staying up all night never felt better.

To learn more about Relay For Life and how you can get involved and make a difference in your community, visit the Relay For Life website for your province.

Last modified on: 27 July 2010