Three Catholic secondary schools across our system have made an impact on life-saving cancer research. St. Thomas More, Bishop Tonnos and St. Jean de Brébeuf Catholic Secondary Schools each hosted a Relay for Life event raising close to a record-breaking $100,000 between the schools.
While each school brought their own heart and spirit to the cause, the mission was consistent: to support cancer research, shape health policies and provide vital services for patients and their families across Canada.
At St. Thomas More, which raised an impressive $42,198, the day began with the Survivor’s Lap, led by those who had bravely fought cancer. Survivors led the way with everyone walking in support behind them, shared Teacher Alexis Saranko.
One of the most powerful moments came during a keynote address from Dr. Eric Seidlitz, Assistant Professor of Anaesthesia at McMaster University and a stage 4 anaplastic thyroid cancer survivor. His words of resilience and hope resonated deeply with all in attendance.
“Dr. Seidlitz spoke about resilience, hope, and the importance of community. He reminded attendees of the many things cancer cannot do, but most importantly, it cannot break the human spirit or prevent people from coming together to support one another.”
“Thanks to the dedication of the Knights Fighting Cancer committee and the overwhelming support of the school and wider community, this year’s Relay for Life was not only a fundraising triumph, but also a profound day of awareness, unity, and compassion.”
The day wasn’t without fun either. Alongside Bishop Tonnos, STM's staff took on an Ice Bucket Challenge, soaking principals and staff members in freezing water in the spirit of fundraising.
At Bishop Tonnos, which raised $38,819, the relay carried even more personal significance for Teacher Michael Luciani.
“The day of our relay was my mom's bell ringing anniversary which signaled the end of her treatment. So, she got to celebrate the day with us and our good friend, Kathleen. Also, my mom's best friend is a former EA here at BT who lost her battle with cancer a few years ago, so I know it was meaningful for her to be here. She loved the energy from the students and all the activities. Getting to connect with other woman who battled cancer and share their stories throughout the day was also special.”
For BT Teacher Jessica Laitila, the presence of guest speaker Janet Forbes, a three-time breast cancer survivor, was especially powerful.
“Janet’s message was one of hope,” said Laitila. “It definitely took strength for Janet to fight cancer three times. She also spoke about the support she had from family and friends. As Canadian Cancer Society says, "it takes a society".
“The Bishop Tonnos community was our society. Together, we raised a significant amount of money for the Canadian Cancer Society. We could not have accomplished this without the time and effort each student and staff member contributed.”
Over at St. Jean de Brébeuf, the school’s first-ever Relay for Life was an overwhelming success, raising just over $18,500 and drawing in 400 enthusiastic participants.
“Our event turned the track into a festival of fun and purpose,” said teacher Julie Perri. “Students competed in volleyball and pickleball, decorated shirts, bounced on inflatables, and rallied together through themed laps. It was everything we hoped it would be and more.”
The day was made especially meaningful by Taryn Gilbert, a St. Jean de Brébeuf student and two-time cancer survivor, who shared her inspiring story with courage and grace.
“Thanks to everyone’s enthusiasm and generosity,” said Perri, “we surpassed our fundraising goal, and more importantly, we showed our students what it means to be part of something bigger than themselves.”
All three events closed with a moving Luminary Ceremony, where the glow of candles filled the gym as communities stood together in reflection and solidarity.
Through every lap walked, dollar raised, and memory made, these schools didn’t just support a cause, they became a powerful reminder that when a community unites, hope shines brightest.
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