RALEIGH, N.C. – The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) invites the community to join the annual Lights of Hope event at the North Carolina State Capitol on Sunday, August 30 from 7:15-8:15 p.m. to honor lives touched by cancer and champion the need for cancer research and prevention funding. Each year, ACS CAN hosts Lights of Hope to remember loved ones lost to cancer and celebrate the millions of cancer survivors. The evening’s luminary tribute will provide an opportunity for reflection and fellowship. Attendees are encouraged to donate $10 per bag to decorate bags in honor of loved ones.
Funds raised through Lights of Hope help fuel work to make cancer a top priority for public officials and candidates at the federal, state and local levels.
Speakers at the event will include Rep. Grant Campbell (District 83), sponsor of House Bill 567 for increased biomarker testing access, and Ashley Fannin, whose son Mason is a childhood cancer survivor.
“This cause is so important to our family and we are proud to share Mason’s story in the name of advocacy. When Mason was diagnosed with cancer at six years old, we were beyond scared. Eight years later, he is thriving. We are so grateful to the research advancements that helped Mason survive and thrive. I am touched to see how our community comes together for Lights of Hope,” Ashley Fannin said.
The event comes as ACS CAN volunteers prepare to head to Washington, D.C. for the annual Capitol Hill Leadership Summit & Lobby Day that includes the national Lights of Hope Across America display. Volunteers will meet with North Carolina’s members of Congress to urge them to provide the highest levels of funding for cancer research and prevention in next year’s budget. Reporters will have the opportunity to speak with volunteers heading to D.C.
WHO: Cancer survivors and advocates, including Ashley Fannin and Rep. Grant Campbell
WHAT: 16th Annual North Carolina Lights of Hope
WHERE: NC State Capitol, 1 E. Edenton Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
WHEN: Sunday, August 30, 7:15 p.m.
Photos available from previous event: LOH Pics