Prescott – South Grenville District High School (SGDHS) kicked off their 8th annual Relay for Life campaign in support of the Canadian Cancer Society late last week.
In pep rally style in the school gym, student leaders got the rest of the school motivated for the annual tradition of raising funds for the Canadian Cancer Society. The school’s fundraising goal this year is $50,000.
“I think it’s super important that these kids know they can actually make such a big difference,” said SGDHS Chef and Relay Coach Brandi Donovan. “Over the years, I’ve learned that whenever we throw a challenge down to the kids, they rise above and beyond it.”
In 2023, SGDHS raised more than $78,000 for cancer research, and they are off to a hot start this year, raising more than $6,000 in donations already.
Cancer survivor Lyric Rogers from St. Mary’s Catholic High School in Brockville also attended the rally, performing original songs he wrote about his battle with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Donovan also revealed an extra incentive for students if they hit this year’s goal.
“I did throw it down that if they made the $50,000 that I would get a tattoo, designed by the students,” Donovan said. “Their super goal is $80,000, and they are confident they can beat last year’s total.”
SGDHS will hold its 12-hour Relay for Life event on May 30. Teams of six to 10 people will walk laps around the track from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Live entertainment, games and food vendors will also be on-site to keep everyone motivated throughout the day.
In 2023, 340 participants attended, which included a ‘Survivors Lap’ where those who had or have cancer led participants around the track. SGDHS has raised more than $200,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society since their first fundraiser in 2014.
Donovan said anyone can donate to the cause and they are looking for more sponsors to help with the event.
“Cancer affects everyone,” Donovan said. “The Giant Tiger Warehouse is joining us, we have survivor parent teams coming in, we teamed up last year with Seaway District High School, and they are coming back again. Any local business is welcome to join.”
Other UCDSB schools that participate in Relay for Life include Athens District High School and Rideau District High School.
To donate, or participate in the May event, visit the SDGHS Relay for Life page.
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