Candlelight vigil honors cancer victims

Fickle weather did not dampen the spirit of students and community members Tuesday night as the Relay for Life candlelight vigil relocated indoors. "It is something that is very meaningful to me because I am a cancer survivor," said J.D. Miller, a junior elementary and special education major. Miller was diagnosed with diffused large B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, or cancer of the blood. "That was probably the worst moment of my life," Miller said, as he described the emotional and physical drainage caused by chemotherapy. Miller underwent chemotherapy, and after six treatments, no cancer cells were found. In July 2008, he relapsed. "This time they wanted a more aggressive treatment," Miller said. "It was a very difficult time for me." Miller's treatment has been nonresponsive. "I stand here before you as a cancer patient," Miller said. "That is my story. It's … my adventure ,and it is still going on." Miller helped organize the candlelight vigil, a ceremony done in honor of those who have fought or are fighting the battle against cancer. "I'm also a survivor," said ISU President Daniel J. Bradley, who spoke at the event. "Although my tale is not nearly as heroic." Bradley suffered from melanoma. He spoke at the event and encouraged students and community members to get involved in the cause. "I'm convinced we will find a way to stop cancer," Bradley said. Terre Haute mayor Duke Bennett also spoke about his wife's struggle with breast cancer. "She went through the whole process," Bennett said. "A year later the cancer was back. That's even harder to deal with. When you think you've got it beat and it comes back." The luminaries are purchased, then dedicated. Proceeds go to the American Cancer Society. The candlelight vigil, though unconventional, was illuminated by glow sticks instead of candles. The purpose was to "light" hope in participants. "It's serious and you never know when it could touch you someday," said Michael Scott Jr., a junior political science and social studies major and president of Student Government Association. "We all need to take appreciation for the work the American Cancer Society does." There will be a "Rock for Relay" event Monday from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Copper Bar. The cost is $2 and benefits go to Relay for Life. People must be 21 or older to attend.