It’s hard to find someone whose life hasn’t been impacted by cancer in some way — whether through a personal diagnosis, the loss of a loved one, or standing beside someone during the fight of their life. Greater Medina Chamber of Commerce Membership and Events Coordinator Stephanie Mueller knows that impact all too well.
Her passion for advocacy and awareness has been shaped by the experiences of two important men in her life — her father, who survived prostate cancer, and her father-in-law, who lost his battle with colon cancer. Their journeys, combined with the countless stories she's encountered through volunteer work, have inspired her commitment to support others facing cancer — a commitment that's led her to partner with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) and bring an impactful event to the heart of Medina.
On Saturday, Aug. 29, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., the Medina Square Gazebo will glow with hope during the 2nd Annual Lights of Hope. As part of ACS CAN’s nationwide tribute event — now in its 16th year — the evening will honor those affected by cancer, including survivors, individuals currently in treatment, loved ones lost, and caregivers who have stood beside them through the journey.
The Square will be transformed into a moving display of illuminated tribute bags, each one serving as a personal tribute and public call for change. The goal of the event is to honor those impacted by cancer; advocate for increased research funding, improved quality of life for patients and families, and continued efforts to end cancer as we know it; and bring the community together in a shared message that no one faces cancer alone.
To dedicate a personalized Lights of Hope bag, simply make a donation at the event and then use the art supplies to make it unique. For those unable to attend, visit ACSCAN.DonorDrive.com/Participants/MedinaMueller and make a donation. Every contribution of $10 will light another bag.
All donations to the nationwide Lights of Hope events fuel ACS CAN's mission of advocating for evidence-based public policies that reduce the burden of cancer for everyone. Since its founding as the nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate of the American Cancer Society, ACS CAN has helped secure billions in cancer research funding, expand access to affordable health care, and advance prevention initiatives across the country.
Locally, Lights of Hope has received growing support from businesses and residents. Several local businesses are hosting fundraisers and partnerships leading up to the event, including the Coastal Christmas in July Fundraiser at Bella Moxie, Aladdin’s Medina Dine to Donate on August 12, and Cool Beans Medina’s August 29 fundraiser, where a portion of drink sales will benefit the cause. Throughout the summer, visitors can also purchase and decorate tribute bags at Bella Moxie in preparation for the event.
As the tribute bags illuminate the Square on the evening of August 29, they will create a powerful visual reminder that behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a story worth fighting for. Through Stephanie’s dedication and the support of the Medina community, the event shines as a symbol of compassion, advocacy, and hope for a future without cancer.
To learn more, become involved —like joining the planning committee, sponsoring the event, dedicating tribute bags, or volunteering at the event — visit Facebook.com/LOHMedinaOH or contact Stephanie at smh519@gmail.com. Visit the donation page at ACSCAN.DonorDrive.com/Participants/MedinaMueller.
Lights of Hope will honor those affected by cancer, including survivors, individuals currently in treatment, loved ones lost, and caregivers who have stood beside them through the journey.
As the tribute bags illuminate the Square on the evening of August 29, they will create a powerful visual reminder that behind every statistic is a person, family, and story worth fighting for.