Despite the biting cold and severe weather warnings, dozens of cancer survivors, caregivers, families and supporters gathered at the sports grounds of Woodlands International College on May 9 for the return of the Cansa Relay For Life East Rand, an emotional evening dedicated to celebrating survival, honouring lives lost and supporting those still battling cancer.

Held under the 2026 theme ‘Rise Against Cancer Together’, the relay marked the return of the initiative after a gap of several years.

Dressed largely in pink, participants sacrificed their sleep and braved chilly evening conditions from 16:00 to 22:00 as they walked relay laps in solidarity with cancer patients and survivors.

The evening featured several symbolic moments, including the Survivors’ Lap, which celebrated those who have overcome cancer, and the Caregivers’ Lap, recognising the families and loved ones who support patients through treatment and recovery.

Luminaria ceremony leaves many in tears
One of the most emotional highlights of the evening was the luminaria ceremony, where candles placed in decorated paper bags illuminated the field in memory of those who had lost their lives to cancer, while also honouring survivors and those currently fighting the disease.

Many attendees were visibly moved to tears during the ceremony.

Smaller turnout, bigger message
Recently appointed Cansa Relay For Life East Rand chairperson Anand Gounde said the event was intentionally kept smaller this year as organisers focused on rebuilding awareness and reconnecting with the community after the pause.

“We decided to have a smaller relay so that we could reignite awareness around cancer prevention and the different types of cancer,” said Gounde.

“The weather also played a major role in turnout, but for us the number of people does not matter as much as the quality of the event and the message behind it.”

United in the fight against cancer
Gounde, who has more than 14 years of experience with the project, described the relay as a symbol of unity and hope.

“This event defines our role in supporting cancer survivors, caregivers and patients. We stand together so that a cancer survivor can see another birthday. Cancer affects everybody, regardless of race, religion or age. We fight together, unite together and rise together against cancer.”

The event also featured a mobile Cansa support van, where survivors and patients could receive guidance, information and counselling on cancer treatment and support services.

Survivor’s heartfelt testimony shines light on cancer journey
Among the evening’s most powerful moments was a heartfelt testimony by Justine Harvey, a cancer survivor of five years and principal of Woodlands International College.

Standing before the crowd, Harvey reflected on her diagnosis during the Covid-19 pandemic and the life-changing lessons that followed.

“Cancer changes you,” she said.

“The treatments, the waiting rooms, the emotional strain; but you also begin to appreciate ordinary moments in extraordinary ways. You learn gratitude, resilience and the value of people over possessions.”

Harvey also spoke about the importance of support systems for survivors.

“Behind every survivor is a network of people who carry them through the difficult days – family, doctors, nurses, colleagues, friends and communities like this one gathered here tonight.”

She praised Relay For Life for acknowledging both the pain and hope that accompany the cancer journey.

“One of the beautiful things about Relay For Life is that it does not pretend cancer is easy. It recognises the pain and struggle, but it also celebrates survival, progress, research and the incredible strength of the human spirit.”

Generous school support praised
Gounde thanked Woodlands International College for hosting the event free of charge and providing infrastructure and logistical support.

“In over 14 years, I have never seen a school give so much support to this organisation,” he said.
The relay forms part of Cansa’s 95th anniversary celebrations this year.

Support needed beyond relay night
Gounde said one of the organisation’s biggest ongoing challenges remains funding, particularly for transport and outreach services for patients who cannot afford access to treatment and support centres.

“Cancer never sleeps. That is why the relay takes place through the evening, it symbolises the need for support 365 days a year.”

He added that Cansa hopes to grow the East Rand relay into a much larger event by 2027, with plans already under way for next year’s relay to take place in October.

Funds raised through the event assist Cansa in continuing services such as patient care homes, cancer awareness campaigns, transport assistance, research, counselling and support programmes for patients and families across South Africa.