Una Chang & Lauren Kim, Features Writers
Cancer is a disease that affects many. 2017 statistics show that 1 in 2 Canadians will develop cancer in their lifetimes and 1 in 4 will succumb from this disease. Although you may not be affected directly, it is highly probable that those around you will. Cancer is a serious matter, yet how aware of it are you?
The Relay for Life club is back for the new year! To kick start 2018 they had their first meeting on Friday, with much preparation weeks beforehand to make this club run as smoothly as possible. This year, the club is run by Karissa Ketter. Karissa states that the reason she wanted to start this club is because she believes it is important to reach out to those are affected by cancer and do all we can to help them. She wishes to not only raise money to leave a positive impact on our community but also to raise awareness about cancer.
“I have seen the devastation that cancer can bring to people and their families.” -Karissa Ketter, Relay for Life Club President
Although running is one of the ways in which they raise awareness, hence the word “relay”, they do many other things such as various fundraisers around the school to donate to cancer research. Relay For Life is an international organization that began in 1985 and is dedicated to raising money for cancer research. In our school, Relay for Life will raise money until June 8th. Occurring on that same day, a relay will be held by this organization to bring the community together through remembering those who have passed away because of cancer and to support those who have or are currently battling with it. At the event, there will be food trucks, dancing (such as Zumba), live music and more! WGSS will participate in this special event; however, running is optional and walking is encouraged!
“Cancer changes everything. So can you.” -Relay for Life Motto
As meaningful as Terry Fox Day is, it happens only once a year. However, as Karissa states, people “don’t have cancer for just one day of the year”; it affects lives forever. Consequently, Relay for Life aims to ensure that the cancer awareness is constant throughout the year, for it is a serious matter that affects many.
If you are interested in helping out, join the Relay for Life club at WGSS! Meetings are every Friday in Ms. Oram’s room! Everyone is welcome and can make a difference in the lives of others. So how will you raise awareness?
