Shine a Light on Lung Cancer Vigil

Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer of men and women in the U.S. It will claim the lives of approximately 156,940 people (27% of all deaths from cancer) this year.

On November 1st we will join other groups around the country to host a vigil to raise awareness and support for lung cancer.  Attendees will hear from Dr. James Counce, a thoracic surgeon from the Cardiovascular Surgical Clinic of NWA, as well as Kathy Britt, a local lung cancer survivor and a volunteer for Hope Cancer Resources.  They will tell us about their own experiences with this devastating disease.

The idea and inspiration for the National Shine A Light on Lung Cancer Vigil originated in Boston under the leadership of Diane Legg, a lung cancer survivor and founder of Lung Cancer Alliance's Massachusetts Chapter.  It began as a handful of volunteers on the steps of the capitol and quickly grew into an annual event with hundreds of participants lighting up the Prudential Building in downtown Boston.

Diane and another advocate, David Watson, envisioned a national program offering the millions of people touched by lung cancer a simple yet inspirational and effective way of raising awareness, honoring loved ones, and getting involved in the movement for change. Last year, 65 vigils took place nationwide with thousands in attendance and community-based media sharing the real stories and faces of lung cancer. Thanks to their vision and commitment, the vigil now aims to reach 100 communities nationwide representing all 50 states.  The vigil also has international venues in Australia, an Army base in Afghanistan, and inquiries from several other countries.

We hope you'll join us for this very special evening from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at our office at 5835 W. Sunset Avenue in Springdale. For more information please contact Adela Martinez, LSW, at 479-361-5847.