Personal Stories: Gail Lesier

Read why Gail Leiser finds strength and inspiration at the Luminary Night each year:

"Like all of the YBs, I'm a "do something" person. And after Carol died, we all wanted to do something. Something to honor her life, yes, but also something more than that. We wanted to do something that might, someday, prevent others from meeting the same fate.

We decided to work with the American Cancer Society to raise funds for research, education and patient support by organizing the Carol Dyer Memorial Luminaria Evening. At that time, we had no idea what an uplifting, life-giving night it would turn into. What we thought would be a simple fundraising event turned out to be a time of celebrating the living, of mourning lives lost, of accepting diagnosis, and of encouraging survivors and their loved ones.

It is truly an honor to help organize this event. I meet so many people whose lives have been touch in some way by cancer. I am strengthened and humbled by their courage and determination."

Personal Stories: Anna Murphy

Here's our next personal narrative from Anna Murphy:

"My fondest memory of the last ten years of celebrating my dear friend, Carol Dyer, is the very first luminary night ten years ago.

The concept of putting a little white candle into a little white bag to symbolize the triumph over someone's battle with cancer or to commemorate the loss of someone's battle with cancer became a reality that evening for me as the skies became dark, but the Town Green became bright, with each small luminary bag giving us a special way to pay tribute to all whose lives have been touched by cancer.

I would also like to acknowledge my special friends, the YB's, who come together every year for this special event to ensure that Carol's memory will always be honored."

Personal Stories: Kate Jordan

Here's the first in our series of personal stories from each of the inspirational women who make this event a huge success year after year. Read what the evening means to Kate Jordan:

"For me, the event to honor the memory of our friend has become much more than raising funds; for some who attend it has become part of their healing journey. Some haven't spoken or written the name of their loved one since they passed. It can be overwhelming and through this event they are allowed to be emotional in a shared experience. This is an opportunity for families and friends to come together with other like families and allow themselves to grieve their loss or celebrate their remissions. For one night each year we open our hearts and ears to those who gather from many places. We take a moment to honor each person individually as we share in their healing. I am honored and humbled to be a part of these moments."