Nanaimo students continue lasting legacy during Relay for Life

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The relay began at 9 a.m. and will continue through until 7 p.m. Friday evening.

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Donations have been collected annually since 2020, with over $150,000 raised in the years since.

Ryan said each year the legacy of the event and its meaning to the school community expands.

“After doing it for a few years, the kids know about it, so it’s almost like a bit of a legacy now. In our relay launch, we get everybody to stand up and put their hand up if they’ve been affected by cancer or you know somebody who has been affected by cancer, and it’s literally 90 per cent of the room. It’s a cause that everyone can get behind, because it’s literally affecting everyone.”

Relay for Life events held at Dover Bay Secondary will go until 7 p.m. on Friday evening. (Image Credit: Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

Lincy John is part of the school’s Student Council, saying they arranged things through weekly meetings.

Money raised through other events in the school calendar, including a winter formal and pancake breakfasts, all help the Relay for Life efforts.

The event is capped by a Luminary ceremony, which brings a lot of emotion for many in attendance.

“I remember last year, there were some really touching stories. We had some students crying, some teachers crying too, and it was really touching,” John said. “I think that part of the ceremony is definitely what brings the heart to it. We will also have a couple of survivor speakers here today.”

Donations can be made via the Canadian Cancer Society’s website, directly to the Dover Bay Secondary event.

Dover Bay teacher Alita Dancy said they’re grateful for immense support from their school and the broader community, with the event serving as a wonderful experience for the students involved.

“Teenagers generally get a bit of a bad rap in the world today, but we have over 400 kids out here who have put, honestly, months into fundraising for such an amazing cause. I’m really proud to see their efforts and just highlight and celebrate what they’ve been able to accomplish.”

— with files from Ian Holmes

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