Night of Hope to be an unforgettable event

Night of Hope's annual event is more than a cancer walk, it's a way to provide support for and gain inspiration from cancer patients and survivors.

The organization's president, Brenda Noel, promises that the Walk for Cancer will be a special night, particularly for those who've been personally affected by cancer.

"It'll be an evening they'll never forget," she said.

The walk raises money through many different means to supply locals suffering from cancer with things such as patient aid, scholarships and survivor retreats in addition to many other forms of support. Although 90 percent of the funds stay local, 10 percent of the money is sent to the Eppley Cancer Research Center in Omaha.

Night of Hope evolved out of Relay for Life 12 years ago, when the Dorwart Cancer center was built. Those involved in Relay for Life in Sidney decided they wanted to raise money to donate to local cancer patients instead of sending the money to a national organization. Since then, the group has held the local walk in Legion Park every year.

"Through this event, the Night of Hope Foundation is able to reach out and touch the lives of so many cancer patients who might be your neighbor, family member or co-worker," Noel said in an email.

Night of Hope raises money in various ways including donations collected by participating teams and a "chair-ity" auction. Local businesses or individuals can donate a themed chair along with items to go with the chair for auction. The team from TE Connectivity sold food at KSID Cruisin' Night to raise money for the event.

Last year was the first year for the "chair-ity auction," but according to Noel it was a big hit.

The organization will also raise money this year through cookbook sales.

The annual walk isn't the only time throughout the year that Night of Hope receives donations. School organizations hold events during the rest of the year to raise money and local athletic teams often hold "pink outs" to gather funds. Fox Theatre also holds special nights in which movie ticket funds go toward Night of Hope.

Noel urges locals to participate in the Walk for Cancer.

"I would encourage them to take part in the walk if they always wanted to be a part of something special and help out people in need," she said.

Last year the walk raised $43,000 and had an estimated 400 to 500 participants. This year's walk will begin at 5:45 p.m. on Aug. 8 with the national anthem followed by the survivor's lap.

The evening will feature guest speakers, a barbeque dinner, the "chair-ity" auction, Night of Hope cookbook sales and face painting. The luminary readings and slideshow will start at dusk.

Those interested in taking part in the walk can register anytime from now until Aug. 7 at the Dorwart Cancer Center or at the event on the night of the walk. Noel encourages interested parties to register early, because she can't guarantee availability of every t-shirt size to those who register on the night of the walk. Registration is $10 and includes a t-shirt.

Survivors are not required to pay the registration fee, but should register so they can receive a shirt.

"With your support, we will be able to continue to offer assistance for another year," Noel said.

Any area resident undergoing active cancer treatment qualifies for aid from Night of Hope. The organization provides assistance to cancer patients living in Sidney, Dalton, Gurley, Lodgepole, Sunol, Potter, Dix, Kimball, Peetz and Chappell in addition to other surrounding areas. Those in need of assistance can apply for help from Night of Hope at the Dorwart Cancer Center in Sidney. To qualify cancer patients are not required to be receiving treatment in Sidney.

"We hope it helps take off a little of the stress in their life," Noel said.

Easing strain for cancer patients helps them to focus on staying strong and fighting the disease, she said.

"We invite you to come join us for this wonderful evening," Noel said. "It promises to be a night filled the friendship, inspiration and hope."

Noel is touched and inspired each year that she attends the walk.

"The survivor lap always makes me cry," she said.

Fighting cancer takes strong faith, a good support system and a positive attitude, she said.

"To watch the survivors take their lap and see the strength that they show and the smiles on their faces is encouraging to me that anything is possible," Noel said.

Anyone with questions about the walk can call the Dorwart Cancer Center at 254-9192.