INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s annual Light the Night walk returns to Indianapolis on Sept. 18 at Military Park. The event raises money and awareness in the fight against blood cancers.

Tiffani Adkins, campaign development manager for Light the Night, says the walk honors those lost, celebrates survivors, and shows support for families still fighting.

“It’s a way for communities to come out, honor those who may have passed away, support survivors, and just let everyone know how prominent blood cancer is,” Adkins said. “Every three minutes, someone in the U.S. is diagnosed.”

Adkins says one of the most emotional moments comes when survivors carry their lanterns.

“They’re just so proud that they’ve battled this disease and they’ve survived and had an incredible outcome,” she said.

This year’s honored hero is Raelyn Medici, a pediatric blood cancer survivor. Her father, Mike, says the journey began when she was just 4 years old.

“She had 19 spinal taps, which is incredible just to imagine a four- or five-year-old going through that many,” Medici said. “But to overcome this and come out on the other end, it’s honestly been a blessing.”

Medici says his wife will share their story at the walk.

“Hopefully it inspires some other people and lets them know they’re not alone, that we can get through this.,” he said.

The opening ceremony begins at 7:45 p.m. followed by the walk. For more information on how to take part, click here.

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