EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Texas Tech University El Paso is inviting local residents to participate in their “Lighting Campus for Hope” event to raise funds for important cancer screenings.
The free event, taking place in December, will feature a mascot dance battle, photo opportunities with Santa and his friends and a grand finale with fireworks, Texas Tech said in a news release.
The event will take place on Dec. 6 and will transform the Texas Tech campus into a “winter wonderland packed with family-friendly activities.”
Texas Tech said it also plans to invite cancer patients from across El Paso to the event to share words of resilience, determination and hope.
Last year's event raised $67,750 for 366 life-saving tests, according to Texas Tech University.
“Campus Lighting for Hope not only illuminates our campus, but also the spirit of resilience and unity in our community,” said Dr. Andrea Tawney, associate director of Institutional Advancement at Texas Tech University El Paso. “Last year's success has inspired us to continue supporting brave cancer patients, raising funds for life-saving cancer testing and bringing holiday warmth to everyone.”
Funds will be allocated to support general cancer screening in the following programs at Texas Tech University El Paso:
- Breast Cancer Education, Screening and Navigation (BEST) Program
- Breast cancer screening program at a clinic run by medical students
- Southwestern Coalition for Colorectal Cancer Screening (SuCCeSS) Program
- De Casa En Casa Cervical Cancer Screening Program
According to Texas Tech University, proper screening reduces cancer incidence and mortality: Cervical and colorectal cancers have declined by 55 percent to 45 percent over the past few decades, and death rates have also fallen significantly.
