St. John Catholic High School Raises $119,000 for Annual Relay for Life Event

Kemptville – St. John Catholic High School in Perth held their annual Relay for Life event on Friday, June 7, raising $119,000 collectively, and far surpassing the previous school record of $109,000 raised in 2023. Donations continue to be received and the school’s fundraising total since 2001 has officially surpassed the $1 million mark. This year, 390 students participated in the fundraiser.

Relay for Life is an initiative which raises money to support the Canadian Cancer Society. Participants gather at a community space and take turns walking around a track or path to symbolize the perseverance and action needed to change the future of cancer.

The 12-hour rally began at 9:30 am with the opening lap and continued throughout the day with opening ceremonies, a survivor victory lap, a reception featuring music from alumni bands and a fireworks display supported by the Perth Fire Department. The event was filled with a mix of sunny skies, heavy rain, thunder, and even a rainbow, but no matter the weather, staff and students showed amazing resilience and spirit.

“We are incredibly proud of our students and staff. Their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment have propelled St. John Catholic High School past the incredible threshold of $1 million raised for cancer research over the past 24 years. This is more than a number, it is a testament to the power of perseverance, community spirit, and the unwavering belief that together, we can make a difference,” noted Principal Pascale Michaud.

The Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario operates 39 elementary and 10 secondary schools across 8 counties. The CDSBEO offers excellence in Catholic education through provincial-leading programs to approximately 13,600 students.