More than 180 people helped raise in excess of a whopping $12,000 in just a dozen hours during Memorial’s first-ever Relay for Life, held on the St. John’s campus on Jan. 28.

The event was organized by students and staff members at the university and raised money for the Canadian Cancer Society.

Organizers had encouraged as many staff and faculty members, as well as students to get involved and they weren’t disappointed. Despite a major storm on Jan. 27, participants from across the university were out in full force for the relay.

“With the pledges and luminary sales we have raised roughly over $12,000. It surpasses our target and we are very pleased. We will not have an official number until the end of the month as fundraising is still ongoing until Feb. 28,” said Chris King, a masters student with the cardiovascular and renal research group in the Faculty of Medicine and one of the key organizers of the event.

Mr. King said he was encouraged so many people volunteered their time to take part in the relay. He said one of the most touching parts of the evening was the Luminary Ceremony. That’s when candles were placed in special bags that displayed the names of cancer survivors and loved ones who have lost their battle with cancer.

“A portion of the MUN Chamber Choir performed and they were absolutely spectacular,” said Mr. King. “There weren’t many dry eyes during those moments. I can't say how proud I am of the steering committee.”

The relay was a unique event. For 12 straight hours, participants walked or ran around the track in Memorial’s Field House in a celebration of survival and a tribute to those who’ve been touched by cancer. When they weren’t on the track, they took part in other activities to keep their momentum going.

Mr. King said he was “extremely proud” the university community banned together for a common cause – the fight against cancer.

“Those individuals sacrificed a Saturday night and stayed up to show their support,” he said. “I want to thank everybody who participated on behalf of the university and Canadian Cancer Society (CCS). The money we fundraised together will go directly towards the services of the CCS, which will help those people affected by cancer.

“I've been talking to cancer survivors over the last couple months and they can't seem to thank how much they appreciate what Memorial University is doing for them. I'd also like to thank the cancer survivors that participated in the event. They are the Relay for Life and living proof that this event does help individuals affected by cancer.”

Meanwhile, Mr. King said he now hopes the relay will become a yearly tradition at Memorial. The success of this year’s event is ammunition for future events.

More information about the Relay for Life is available on the Canadian Cancer Society’s website.