Lights of Love supports local cancer patients

Residents have until Nov. 7 to purchase lights, ornaments, or luminaries honoring loved ones while helping cancer patients pay for transportation, medications, and other everyday expenses.

The annual Lights of Love fundraiser, sponsored by the Blue Ridge HealthCare Foundation, benefits patients at the UNC Health Blue Ridge Cancer Center in Valdese.

Donations can be made in honor or memory of someone through the purchase of a symbolic light for $10, a clear glass ornament for $15, or a luminary for $20.

The fundraiser culminates with a tree-lighting ceremony Dec. 3 at 5:30 p.m. at the Cancer Center in Valdese. The tree’s lights represent people being honored or remembered, with their names displayed during the event. Luminaries will be placed outside the Valdese campus.

Last year’s fundraiser raised $25,000.

“Our patients are wondering how they’ll afford gas to get to treatment, how they’ll pay for medications, or how to keep food on the table while they’re unable to work,” said Charity Elliott, a social worker at the Cancer Center. “The funds stay here in the community, helping patients with meals, transportation, medications, and other everyday needs.”

Dr. Justin Hart, a radiation oncologist at the center, said financial assistance can help patients concentrate on their treatment.

“When we can remove even one obstacle, patients can focus on what matters most — healing,” Hart said.

Traci Riebel, executive director of the Blue Ridge HealthCare Foundation, said many donors purchase lights to remember family members, friends, and co-workers affected by cancer.

Purchases can be made through Nov. 7 at uncbr.org/lol2026.

— AVN