SPRINGFIELD, Ohio ( WDTN ) — Friday night in Springfield, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network honored the countless lives touched by cancer with its Lights of Hope display.
Names were seen on lit-up bags across the Clark County Heritage Center. Organizers say they carry more than just a name — it’s a whole story of the fight those dealing with cancer face daily.
Students explore career opportunities at Sinclair’s Manufacturing Day “Our slogan for this is ‘it’s more than a bag.’ There’s a story behind every single bag,” said Tom Pamer, American Cancer Society District 10 act lead.
As nightfall arrived in Springfield, the light of the bags illuminated the area. It’s all done to showcase hope when it comes to the battle against cancer.
“The light of the candle shows hope and their light and their story continuing to burn,” said Pamer.
It was the names of cancer fighters, survivors, as well as those lost to the disease that surrounded the fountain — but also shows that their memory lives on.
“Those that have been lost, when their families shows up and sees their loved ones on a luminary, they know that their story has not been forgotten. And we continue to advocate for them,” said Pamer.
Those who are currently fighting cancer attended the ceremony – and said that the words of encouragement help them in their fierce battle.
“While there is so much pain with cancer. There is also moments of joy. And events like tonight bring back some of that joy. Cancer is hard, but we can do hard things together. And it’s important that we support each other,” said Leah McClarey, 20-year cancer fighter and survivor.
23-year-old charged in murder of woman on US-35 Those who have a loved one who fought against cancer and won say they feel that the display showcases the strength of the community. This includes Colten Carmin, whose mother battled cancer and won.
“I have been everything with her. And she has always been there for me. It definitely was one of the toughest moments in my life. She made it through it. And I am very glad,” said Carmin.
Displays like these are happening in different areas of Ohio sending a message that cancer is much bigger than you think, but support for the fight is always in the corner.
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