Cancer Support Community of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s 17th annual “Wings of Hope: A Butterfly Release” Sept. 7 celebrated those whose lives have been touched by cancer.

Standing by Cedar Crest College’s Alumnae Hall, around 350 attendees delighted at the release of approximately 600 live Painted Lady butterflies, despite cloudy skies and occasional drizzle. The free event is in its 17th year. Except for the actual release, the activities were held inside the auditorium and lobby.

Friends, family and loved ones were remembered with paper butterflies inscribed with their names. These were pinned to colorful curtains hung in Alumnae Hall’s auditorium.

They were also celebrated with the live butterflies supplied by Jim Thorpe-based Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary. The paper and real insects, along with souvenir and food sales help fund CSCGLV’s mission.

Recently retired WFMZ-TV 69 news anchor Rob Vaughn continued serving as “Wings of Hope” emcee. He has only missed two of these events. CSCGLV Executive Director Gina Stano, Dr. Israel Zighelboim from St. Luke’s Cancer Center, and Aileen Burke from Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute were featured speakers.

“I was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer in January of this year,” says Vaughn. After surgery and hormone therapy, Vaughn’s PSA numbers are now ‘undetectable.’ “I’m doing well.”

“Retirement is awesome!” exclaimed Vaughn. “There’s plenty to do. We have 10 grandchildren and there’s always stuff happening.” He does admit to missing his co-workers.

When asked if he plans to reunite with his retired mustache, Vaughn remarked that he had grown one with a beard, but after a brief round of chemo, it started falling out. “Whether to go back to growing a mustache, I don’t know. I’m undecided,” he grins.

Rachel Kennedy Holmes delivered an emotional address on her experiences as a cancer survivor and caretaker. She expressed gratitude to CSCGLV for the support the nonprofit provided during her mom’s battle with pancreatic cancer and later when she faced a breast cancer diagnosis herself. “She lost her battle on Jan. 31, 2023,” said Holmes tearfully about her mother. “I will never be the same without her.”

Sheila Milz provided musical entertainment and families checked out products, services and craft activities at various tables.

On hand were The Chemo Bag, a Bath-based nonprofit that provides gift bags to cancer patients, and Perfect Balance Boutique, owned by cancer survivor Kimberly Gerhard. The Lehighton business provides wigs, prosthetics and undergarments for cancer patients.

Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary Foundation Director Mari Gruber assured those who were releasing butterflies that the fragile-looking insects could handle rain if the skies opened up.

Event sponsors included St. Luke’s Cancer Center, Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute, Adams Outdoor Advertising and Cedar Crest College.

Information: 610-861-7555; cancersupportglv.org.