An annual memorial service honouring people who have died of cancer is to be sponsored by Sun Life International.

The company is sponsoring the Luminaria Ceremony, which takes place during the Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre’s Relay for Life.

“This sponsorship continues our tradition of contributing to the health and wellbeing of the communities where we live and work,” said Donna Cotter, the CEO of Sun Life International.

“The causes we support represent who we are as a company. This year, the Luminaria Ceremony sponsorship is especially meaningful to us, as we are honouring the memory of our dear colleague, Millie Minors.”

The Luminaria Ceremony takes place during the Relay for Life at the National Sports Centre when activities pause and attendees each light a luminaria lantern along the racing track.

Attendees then walk along the track in silence while taking in the luminarias, which have all been decorated with dedications and represent a life affected by cancer.

Luminarias can be purchased for a minimum $10 donation, where they will be placed along the track at the North Field and left until dawn.

Donors can opt to decorate the lanterns themselves or have a volunteer decorate them with a personal message. They must be submitted to BCHC no later than May 10, or placed directly on the North Field track on May 12 between 10am and 8pm.

Relay for Life is a 24-hour event between May 12 and 13 and the Luminaria Ceremony will take place at 9pm.

• To purchase a luminaria or sign up as a sponsor, visit the Relay for Life website