Light The Night…A Night To Save Lives

November 19, Alachua County and UF students came together to support finding a cure for blood cancers. American Medical Student Association partnered with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to raise money. There were survivors, families those who lost the battle and supporters of finding the cure.

“I am here to support my friends who have multiple myeloma,” said Margi Stark. “I co-facilitate a cancer support group here in Gainesville.” She is a cancer survivor as well. Below is a video highlighting the night’s event.

“I am really excited Light the Night is on campus,” said Yesinia Lucas. “It’s an easy way for students to get involved.”

Not only were students involved during the event, but also the Team in Training was there. This is a segmented group off the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. They train together for half-marathons and full marathons. In turn for the coaching they receive each member of the team pledges to raise money and volunteer for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Their coach, Tim Vincent, has been coaching for ten years here in the Gainesville area.

“I am supporting someone who went through something I am blessed to not have,” said Mrs. Presley. “I am walking in honor of three people who have left this earth too early.”

The event began with a Rembrance Ceremony for those who lost loved ones. Each chair at the ceremony had Forget Me Nots taped on, remembering though they have lost their battle, the war is not over. A wreath was filled with the names of loved ones as we all took time to remember their wonderful personalities.

Then before the walk even started there was many different events and food for those coming out the support. OTB Kids was there helping face paint and provided a bouncer for children to play in. Albert and Alberta came out to show the Gator Nation support. The Gator Cheerleaders and Filipino Dancers showed their support through their talents and entertainment for the crowd. There was pizza, cotton candy and smoothies to give energy to everyone before the walk. At 7:30 p.m. the walk began. The balloons lit up the sky, gold ones for those walking in honor of someone, white for survivors and red for supporters.

The event is an annual one and will be held again next November. If you would like to get involved in planning next year’s event please check the American Medical Student Association website for information at www.ufpremed.org.

Video By: Lauren Inborne

Written By: Anna Daggs

Photos By: Jeff Glicksman