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Denison students step up to fight cancer at Relay for Life (14 photos)

Newmarket's Dr. J.M. Denison Secondary School students honour cancer survivors and raise more than $47,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society

Newmarket's Dr. J.M. Denison Secondary School students stepped up yesterday at their Relay for Life to honour cancer survivors and raise more than $47,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society.

The event began at 10 a.m. with the Survivors’ Victory Lap, with students then required to have at least one member of their team doing laps on the track until the event wrapped up at 10 p.m.

Many of the students came prepared for the 12-hour event with tents and gear lining the side of the track, while food, live music and activities like a giant Twister game entertained those taking a break from walking.

The Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life is a nationwide event that brings communities together to celebrate survivors, honour those we’ve lost and commit to raising funds to fight all types of cancer.

"Every year, the enthusiasm and support from approximately 100,000 passionate participants means we can continue to make the most impact, against the most cancers across the country," according to the Cancer Society.

Other local high school also hold an annual Relay for Life events  — Newmarket High School raised more than $87,500 at its May 23 event and Sir William Mulock Secondary School raised more than $69,000 at its event, also held yesterday.

Pickering College hosts the annual Newmarket community Relay for Life, this year on Friday, June 21 from 6 p.m. to midnight. To get involved or make a donation, visit the website or call Karen Beaulieu at 905-830-0447, ext. 3833, [email protected]

You can also purchase a luminary, a small candle that lines the track in memory of a loved one and to honour those living with cancer in our communities. 

Nearly 1 in 2 Canadians expected to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.