On Friday, April 1, 2005, a student group at the University of Ottawa held its first Relay for Life 12 hour walk-a-thon to raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society. A candlelight ceremony was held as part of the event, honouring those who are suffering from cancer or have lost their battle against this illness.
Organizers hope to make this event a tradition on campus. Relay for Life co-coordinator Brigitte Noel, who has personally been affected by cancer, notes that the goal is not strictly a monetary one. She sees the event as a means to provide support to those affected by the number one cause of early death in Canada. “Cancer affects everyone. It has touched the lives of so many, and it is crucial to give these people the support which this event offers,” she says.
