INDEPENDENT NEWSMEDIA
The Phoenix Children’s Foundation is hosting the 14th Annual Ignite Hope Candlelight Celebration on Dec. 13, with the event beginning at 3 p.m.
The event begins at North High School with a festival, and the walk begins at 5:30 p.m. and ends at Phoenix Children’s Thomas Campus.
The Ignite Hope tradition was initiated in 2012 when friends and family of Katie Wagner, a 15-year-old patient at Phoenix Children’s who had been diagnosed with cancer, organized a candlelit vigil outside her hospital window. Katie herself took part in the inaugural Ignite Hope walk. She sadly passed away the following year in September 2013. Despite this loss, the candlelight tradition continues as a tribute to her memory, aiming to bring light and hope to the lives of patients while also rallying the community to raise funds for Phoenix Children’s
“Ignite Hope is a truly special experience that makes an incredible impact during the holiday season,” said Steve Schnall, senior vice president and chief development officer at Phoenix Children’s Foundation in a release. “The support of our community brings joy and connection to those in the hospital, making the season brighter for patients and families.”
The event features a festival of food, entertainment, photos with Santa, kids’ activities, and more. When the sun sets, Santa will lead participants on a candlelight walk to the hospital. The community will help light the Phoenix Children’s holiday tree.
Registration is $20 for adults and $5 for youth through Nov. 30, and from Dec. 1 to the day of the event is $40 for adults and $10 for youth.
For registration an more information, go to PCHIgniteHope.org.
Keywords
Phoenix Children’s Foundation,
Ignite Hope Candlelight Celebration,
Katie Wagner,
Steve Schnall,