Shining a Path to Hope and a Cure: Long Branch’s Light the Night Unities Shore Communities in the Fight Against Cancer

LONG BRANCH, NJ – "Light The Night is a powerful way for our New Jersey communities to unite in support of those affected by blood cancer," said Jana Boyer, Executive Director of the LLS NJ Region. "A cancer diagnosis affects not just patients but their loved ones—family, friends, and coworkers. Raising lanterns together symbolizes that no one walks this journey alone, and The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) is here to provide unwavering support."

On Saturday, October 5th, more than 1,000 participants gathered on the Long Branch boardwalk, carrying lanterns to honor loved ones and shine a light of hope. The event began with moving stories from representatives holding three different lantern colors—Gold, White, and Red—each carrying a deeply personal message.

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Gold Lanterns: In Remembrance of Those Lost to Cancer
The Begley family walked to honor the memory of Lauren Begley, a cherished daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. Lauren fought courageously against Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia but tragically lost her battle at just 29 years old, after a brave four-month struggle. This marked Lauren’s Posse’s 25th year participating in Light The Night. Her family and friends deeply miss her vibrant smile and love of life. They walk each year determined to help find a cure for blood cancers so that no family has to endure the pain and loss they have suffered.

White Lanterns: Celebrating Survivors
Keri Cronin was diagnosed with stage IV non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma during her second year of medical school in 2021. A former college field hockey player, the cancer left her in a wheelchair for months due to bone lesions. Yet, Keri fought through intense chemotherapy, and today, three years into remission, she’s living her dream as an internal medicine resident. Keri’s battle has inspired her to pursue a career in oncology, where she hopes to share her experience and help others facing similar battles. Keri and her family cherish the support they received from LLS, and this walk is a powerful reminder of her journey.

Red Lanterns: Honoring Friends and Family Supporting Those in the Fight
Ginny and Rich proudly carried Red Lanterns for their son Bruce, who was diagnosed with Leukemia. In Bruce's first two years participating in Light The Night, he was too weak to walk due to his chemotherapy treatments, so Rich carried him on his shoulders to the finish line. But this year was different—this year, Bruce walked on his own, having won his battle with Leukemia and joyfully ringing the bell. Their Red Lanterns shone brightly with hope, not just for Bruce, but for every child still fighting, and for the families, friends, healthcare workers, and communities who carry these children forward in their fight against cancer.

A Night to Remember

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After these inspiring stories were shared, the crowd raised their lanterns in unison, filling the night with light and hope. As the walk began, participants passed through a beautifully illuminated gazebo, cheered on by local cheerleaders. The walk continued along the boardwalk, where the Monmouth University band played enthusiastically at the turning loop, energizing the participants. The night culminated in a breathtaking firework display, lighting up the sky and symbolizing the collective strength of a community standing together.

Light The Night not only raises crucial funds for LLS’s life-saving work but also brings communities together to show that no one faces cancer alone. The love, hope, and support displayed at this event is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of unity in the fight against blood cancer.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is a global leader in the fight against blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care.

All donations help fund the three mission pillars? Research, Patient Access and Policy and Advocacy. If anyone would like to donate for this year, they can visit: https://msg.lls.org/CURELONGBRANCH

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