As crowds walked the winding pebble path along the pond in Constitution Gardens on Tuesday night, thousands of white bags illuminated the way. Each honoring someone who has been touched by cancer. Lights of Hope is the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s signature fundraising event. For 13 years, people across the country have participated through displays in hometowns and state capitals. But the annual display in Washington, D.C., is by far the largest.

Luminaries from all 50 states lined the water. Moffitt Cancer Center sponsored the Florida section and had patients decorate bags in the Arts in Medicine studio. Twenty Moffitt bags were added to the display of 10,000 total, including personalized displays from Johann, who is fighting a rare form of adrenal cancer, and Anthony. Both felt it was important to be represented to let others know they are not alone. 

Meet Anthony. His story isn't just his own, but one of 65,000 voices echoing the same powerful message. Together, we urge lawmakers to keep the battle against cancer at the forefront. Every story, every voice, makes a difference. 🎗️ #MoffittDCFlyIn #LightsofHope pic.twitter.com/6JrhyJPEWc

— Moffitt Cancer Center (@MoffittNews) September 20, 2023

"We're here, we're all fighting." Thank you, Johann for representing Moffitt at this year's @ACSCAN #LightsofHope event. Your courage inspires us all. Together, we can make a difference. pic.twitter.com/P7Qircusgq

— Moffitt Cancer Center (@MoffittNews) September 20, 2023