Relay for Life
DAIS Relay for Life (RFL) is a community fundraiser run in the honour
of cancer patients, survivors and their families. It memorialises the
lives lost because of this disease and tries to make a difference to
those affected through the funds raised. The highlight of the event
is a walkathon to express support and solidarity for the global fight
against cancer. At the DAIS RFL this year, we planned to include
other activities as well, such as live music, speeches from cancer
survivors and even a Luminaria - the lighting of lanterns as a
glowing tribute to those who have been affected by cancer. We
planned to combine the event with the CAS Fete. Though we were
elated at the prospect of being able to spread our message, using
such a platform also increased the pressure. As such, every minute
of the event had to be planned and rehearsed. We divided work
amongst the team and coordinated with the Indian Cancer Society
(ICS) to help us understand the requirements for an RFL event.
Planning proved to be a stressful task, with last-minute changes and
problems arising when we least expected them to.
The day finally arrived, and our excitement and nervousness
reached its peak. We met hours before the beginning of the event
and ran through our schedules, ensuring that every student knew
their duties. We began putting up the décor, arranging lanterns for
the Luminaria and creating a lit up track for the walkers. When our
guests from the ICS arrived, we showed them around the fete,
giving them a glimpse of the biggest event of the school year.
The speeches made by the brave cancer survivors from the ICS compelled us to look beyond our own difficulties and inspired us to believe that anything could be possible. The Luminaria took place just as the sun began dipping below the horizon. We encouraged people to join us on the field, as we lit lanterns in honour of the people whose lives had forever been changed because of cancer. As the lanterns were placed around the walking track, they created a beautiful scene like miniature stars reaching for the sky. The walkathon commenced with the survivors walking their lap, joined by over ninety other people. The rest of the event continued smoothly, and we were able to raise almost double the amount we had aimed for. But as we look back at the event and the massive amount of time, effort, and energy spent in organising it, our first thought isn't about the money we raised. Instead, we think of the Luminaria, the bright lanterns being a stark contrast against the night, symbolising the intensity of hope in the dark battle against cancer. We think of the ninety people gathered in a circle, solemnly remembering the people they lost because of this battle. We think of the survivors, some still fighting this dark disease, and yet so brave and strong walking around the circle. Above all, we think of the HOPE we infused in so many people. That is what we call a true success!
- Jayani Mehta and Eeshta Bhatt