Every year, people come together to raise funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Light the Night Walk Event. The event takes place in communities all across North America including right here in Gainesville.
During the event, participants carry illuminated balloons in support and remembrance of those who are fighting or have lost the battle with cancer. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Senior Campaign Director, Bob Bryan, explains the significance of the balloons that people carry at the event. Some symbolize a survivor, some a victim.
Most of the money raised by the society goes towards cancer research. Henry E. Innes Cancer Research Professor and U-F Department of Medicine Professor, Dr. Stratford May, says the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society has put $78,000,000 into research this year alone.
Gainesville's Light the Night Walk event raised a little over $24,000 which contributes to the $55,000,000 that the society has raised so far.