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Relay participants fight back against cancer

NANAIMO – Close to 400 people helped raise more than $100,000 at Nanaimo's Relay for Life.

Emotions were high and tears of joy and sorrow shed as close to 400 people took part in the Relay for Life, honouring those who lost their battle with cancer, and celebrating along side those who survived their fight.

Forty teams gathered at Rotary Bowl Stadium on Wakesiah Avenue Friday for the annual 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Canadian Cancer Society relay.

More than $100,000 was raised for cancer research, prevention initiatives and support for people living with the disease.

The evening began with a survivor dinner and a celebratory first lap led by the 2422 Canadian Scottish Regiment army cadets and band.

The evening included the Remember/Luminary Ceremony – a silent lap in tribute to those lost to cancer.

Jennifer Sears, of the Canadian Cancer Society’s Nanaimo unit, said she’d never seen so many smiling, yet determined faces at the relay.

“The sun set and the air chilled, but participants still walked on throughout the night,” she said. “They were cold  and tired, but they knew it was nothing compared to what a cancer patient endures.”

The relay ended with a Fight Back ceremony and pledges by participants to keep up the fight against cancer.

For more information, please go to www.cancer.ca.