University Relay for Life team raises over $5000 for cancer research
Over 40 University staff and students headed to Wellington’s Westpac Stadium on Saturday 6 April to take part in Relay for Life and raise money for cancer research and support services.
16 April 2019
Despite heavy rain and chilly temperatures, the team were able to walk and run around the track until the early hours of the morning, completing 167 laps and coming in as the tenth fastest team. They were also able to raise $5,381.56 for the Cancer Society.
This was the second time the University had entered a team into the Wellington Relay for Life event, and team co-ordinator Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Pasifika) Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban was thrilled to see such a strong effort from the team again this year.
“This money will go towards supporting those suffering from cancer in the Wellington region, having a direct effect on our community through funding support services like counselling and support groups, as well as accommodation for patients near Wellington hospital. It will also go towards the Cancer Society’s health promotion programmes and cancer research efforts that we hope one day will mean no one has to go through cancer.
“Thank you to the staff and students who took the time to fundraise, help organise, and run or walk in the Relay despite the torrential rain. This is a very special event to be involved in and a cause close to my heart, so it was wonderful to see such a strong effort from the University team. I look forward to seeing this event continue to grow.”
So far the Wellington Relay for Life event has raised $514,569—up from $428,059.83 last year. The fundraising page for the Victoria University of Wellington team is open until 21 April, so you can still donate to support cancer research and acknowledge the team’s efforts. The team are hoping to get to $10,000—if every University staff member donates the price of a cup of coffee they will more than make their goal.
If you would like to help organise the team or take part in 2020, please email relayforlife@vuw.ac.nz and the team will be in touch once planning is underway.