Every year, Wheaton’s Colleges Against Cancer club promotes awareness of cancer prevention and raises money for cancer research by hosting a number of events that involve the surrounding community. On April 4, students and local residents gathered in Haas Athletic Center from 3 p.m. to 3 a.m. for Relay for Life, a yearly event sponsored by the American Cancer Society that offers participants an opportunity to honor cancer survivors, promote cancer prevention, and raise money to find a cure for cancer. This year, 17 teams and 153 participants raised over $14,000.
On-campus clubs and friend groups created teams to support the cause by walking the track or raising money. There was a plethora of activities designed to keep teams awake and active as well. The theme was Disney and Pixar. Besides walking, students could jump in a bouncy house or climb a rock-wall. The Blend, The Wheatones, and Voices United to Jam also performed.
It was a heart-touching night. Emily Christensen ’15, co-chair of Colleges Against Cancer, asked everyone in the arena to snap a glowstick if they were here for someone who has or had cancer. By the end of the ceremony, everyone was holding a bright glowstick.
“This year’s Relay was amazing,” said Kaitlyn Solano ’16, who also co-chaired the event. “I’m excited to see the event grow next year and hope to see more of the Wheaton community involved in some way.
“It’s great to see so many people united to fight for the same cause.”