HAMILTON-WENTWORTH CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
STM raises 18K for cancer research

Two in every five Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.

With a student population of almost 2,000, the number of lives affected by the disease within the St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School community is immense.

On May 26, the school hosted a Relay for Life event for the Canadian Cancer Society with a goal of $10,000 to benefit cancer warriors, their families, and to fund important awareness campaigns and research projects.

Led by the school group Knights Fighting Cancer, the event consisted of relays around the track and outdoor games on the turf field.

"The first relay lap was led by three STM staff cancer survivors, from three different generations, which really shows that cancer affects everyone," said Teacher Alexis Saranko.

"This event was an important way to come together in solidarity and support of one another in our community."

Keeping spirits high and bellies full, STM's own Rock Band, "Mummified," performed throughout the day while the food and nutrition classes provided a BBQ, along with fruit and iced coffee, for over 260 attendees.

A special highlight included the Luminary Ceremony, said Saranko.

"It was a powerful and sentimental way to recognize those who we relayed for. Students designed paper bags that reflected their reason for being there that day. The bags were displayed with twinkling lights in the gym and had many in tears."

In total, the event surpassed the initial goal and raised over $18,000.

"It was a day full of community building. Both amongst students and students with staff. We all had a great day just celebrating being together and working towards a common cause."