By Brenna Mackay
Over the weekend of March 12 to 14, 2021, Carleton University hosted the first ever virtual Relay for Life, raising $56,582.12 (and counting) towards groundbreaking cancer research and vital support services.
Relay for Life is a yearlong campaign that encourages the Carleton community to raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society. It culminates in an annual event to support those impacted by cancer with entertainment, interactive activities and inspirational speakers. Over the past 10 years Carleton’s Relay for Life event has raised more than $1 million towards cancer research, making it one of the largest post-secondary events in Canada.
To learn more about the campaign and help Carleton reach their fundraising goal, please visit the Relay for Life team donation website.
Rose Danen
“This year, Carleton Relay for Life looked a little different,” says Rose Danen, the event’s co-chair and a third-year journalism student.
“In the wake of the pandemic, our normally in-person event was no longer possible, but thanks to the hard work of our team, we were able to put together a virtual event that brought together the Carleton community in a fun and engaging way.”
With more than 400 registered participants, events were held primarily on Discord and Zoom. This gave people the freedom to chat with others through text, voice and video rooms. Attendees could customize their weekend and attend activities that interested them. Some of the biggest hits included a magic show, concert, Zumba classes, trivia and bingo night.
This event brings together people from different walks of life with a shared mission. Danen says she has personally been involved with Relay for Life for as long as she can remember. From walking the track with her family as a child and participating with friends in high school, to now helping lead the planning committee at Carleton.
Morgan Beatty
Third-year Global and International Studies student and fellow co-chair, Morgan Beatty, says that the initiative has also been a big part of her life and is the perfect way to build community and give back.
“Cancer affects everyone without prejudice,” says Beatty.
“Relay is important because it provides an opportunity for the Carleton community to come together and rally in the fight against cancer. It brings us closer and helps to strengthen the community as a whole.”
The co-chairs made commitments based on the fundraising amounts. If they raised $50,000, Beatty vowed she would dye her hair blue. She followed through on that promise once they hit the mark and showed off her bright blue locks during closing ceremonies.
A virtual zumba class offered during Relay for Life’s weekend activities
If Carleton hits $60,000 raised before the fundraising link closes on March 31, Danen has committed to shaving her head and donating her hair to the Canadian Cancer Society.
“We want to thank everyone who came out to our event and contributed to our cause,” Danen adds.
“The Carleton community should be proud of the dedication and resilience that they have showcased this weekend.”
Friday, March 19, 2021 in Community, Health, Research
Share: Twitter, Facebook
