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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Main Street in downtown Gresham buzzed with life Friday night as people gathered to support families fighting pediatric cancer and the organization that stands by them.
Candlelighters for Children with Cancer continues to serve more than 350 families each year across Oregon and southwest Washington, providing hope through community support.
“I was initially a little nervous I was going to be depressed, but it’s the complete opposite,” said Daniela Meltzer, executive director of Candlelighters for Children with Cancer. “I’m inspired by the children; I’m inspired by the families. I’m inspired by the community support. It’s incredible.”
There is a significant need in Gresham, where Latino families make up about 40% of the pediatric cancer cases Candlelighters serves.
“I happen to be from Colombia originally, so it’s my honor to help these families kind of make it on the other side,” Meltzer said.
Five local businesses in Gresham teamed up to donate a portion of their proceeds to help families fighting pediatric cancer.
The money will support hospital care, a food pantry and emergency financial aid, totaling more than $60,000 so far and counting.
“It does such good for everybody. And whether you have someone who has had cancer or not, it affects everybody,” said Donna McDowell.
In 1992, McDowell’s granddaughter battled a brain tumor with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
The treatment saved her life but left her with special needs. Today, she lives independently and thrives, thanks in part to Candlelighters’ support all those years ago.
“So, all these extra things that people in our community in the Pacific Northwest do for other people is just tops in my book. I’m really happy so much that people care,” McDowell said.
The work continues to help more families like McDowell’s find hope, healing, and a brighter future.
“A child with cancer is something that I think we can all rally around and really help support that child and their family,” Meltzer said.
At the event, Gresham’s mayor presented a proclamation honoring Candlelighters for Children with Cancer and highlighting the city’s support for their vital work during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
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Anthony Kustura
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