On the third Sunday of October, as many as 3,000 people will illuminate the Fort Worth sky as they walk to shine light upon darkness.
But it's not simply the brightly lighted balloons that will illuminate the streets. It's the light of hope that shines within community members and friends, family and survivors who walk to find a cure for leukemia and lymphoma. Just as many balloons shed more light than one, many people committed to finding a cure can accomplish together more than one individual ever can.
It's a time for celebration, camaraderie and reflection with all funds generated going toward medical research, patient assistance and educational and support services. According to Executive Director of the North Texas Chapter of the Leukemia Lymphoma Society Patricia Thomson, the sight of so many people taking part in the two-mile walk is an inspiration in and of itself.
"My favorite aspect of Light the Night is serving as an eyewitness to the dedication, commitment and passion that our participants bring to the event that night," she says.
In addition to raising money for the cause, Light the Night is also a project designed to bring awareness of Leukemia and Lymphoma and to encourage those dealing with cancer of the blood.
"One of our key goals is to bring awareness to the community that they are not alone in their cancer journey," says Thomson.
This year marks the 13th Annual Fort Worth Light the Night Walk, which is set to take place at the West 7th Development, a location ripe with fine shops, fun entertainment and fabulous restaurants. This year's exclusive food sponsor is Sweet Tomatoes, which is located in the heart of West 7th. The walk will have a festive atmosphere and include refreshments, entertainment, music and children's activities.
Champions for a Cure - those who donate a minimum of $100 - will receive a T-shirt, complimentary meal and a balloon to hold during the walk.
White balloons signify a participant, while red indicates a leukemia/lymphoma survivor. Gold balloons symbolize individuals who are walking in memory of a loved one. There is no registration or entrance fee - rather, participants obtain sponsor pledges to be donated to the Light the Night Walk.
Everyone - young, old, patient, supporter, family member or community volunteer - even those pushing strollers or riding in wheelchairs are invited to join in the fun. And, according to Corinne King, campaign manager for Light the Night of Fort Worth, everyone's contribution is important.
"We are all about giving people options as to how they like to participate," she says. "Some people might want to walk while others might want to pledge money. In fact, people can make donations even if they cannot attend the walk."
Perhaps the most memorable part of the event is watching as bright balloons illuminate the landscape. As King notes, Light the Night is a time of hope for everyone - a belief that someday there will be a cure for leukemia and lymphoma.
"This is a time of celebration for community members, patients and their families."
