Colonial in the Community: Relay for Life

On Friday May 29, thousands came together at Bermuda National Stadium’s North Field to fight back against cancer in support of those who have battled the disease. Relay for Life is a 24-hour event which challenges teams to have at least one member walking at all times of the day.The second annual Relay for Life Bermuda was kicked off with a group lap around the track to cheer on survivors and caregivers.

Colonial’s Ron Spencer founded Relay for Life Bermuda in 2014 after losing his mother to cancer in 2008. His hope was to create an event that focused on all cancers and bring together cancer survivors, family, and friends that have lost someone to the disease and others who are currently fighting. After 5 years of researching, he was able to bring Relay to Bermuda, the 23rd country to participate.

Ron believes Relay for Life is a successful event because, “it is a grassroots family event. I also believe that unfortunately everyone now has been affected by cancer in one way or another. The community of Bermuda has always given back.”

In addition to corporate sponsorship and donations, teams raised money during the event by selling homemade baked goods, raffle prizes, lap beads, and other creative items. The 24 hours were filled with themed laps around the track including: Super Hero, Bermuda Spirit Lap, and a Glow Sticks Lap. A special Luminary Lap honored loved ones that have passed from cancer. Participants decorated luminary bags to show their support for missed friends and family.

Colonial was thrilled to be a Platinum sponsor of this event and entered 3 teams. As a sponsor, Colonial had a few laps where our involvement was high-lighted. Participating team members took that opportunity to share some giveaways with the hundreds of people on the track, including mini first aid kits and fun reflector lights. Thank you to everyone who participated in Relay for Life Bermuda 2015. In the past two years Relay for Life has raised over $1,025,000 dollars with this year’s successful event, raising over $576,000 dollars.