Hundreds of Memorial University students, staff and faculty will band together to help raise thousands of dollars for the cancer research and education this week during the third annual Memorial University Canadian Cancer Society Relay for Life.

The event will take place on Saturday, Jan. 24, beginning at 7 p.m. in Memorial’s Field House on the St. John’s campus.

For 12 hours straight, teams will take part in non-competitive walks around the track, as well as a string of other fun-filled activities. A touching event, known as the Luminary Ceremony, will also be held allowing participants to place candles in special bags that bear the names of cancer survivors and loved ones who have lost their battle with cancer.

Last year, $35,000 was collected with 43 teams and 450 people participating and organizers are hoping to top that amount this year with increased participation.

To learn more about the relay and to get involved, e-mail munrelayforlife@hotmail.com.

Media interviews with organizers of this year’s Relay for Life can be arranged in advance of the fundraiser.

For more information, contact Jeff Green, communications co-ordinator, Division of Marketing and Communications, Memorial University of Newfoundland, at 737-2142 or jeffg@mun.ca.