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The trees at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital were illuminated in blue Thursday night, kicking off a cancer awareness campaign by the Shepard Cancer Center Development Council. Each month, the tree lights will change to correspond with cancer awareness initiatives, such as the blue signifying Colorectal Cancer Awareness for March.

The “Spotlight on Cancer” event aimed to underscore the importance of prevention and early detection. Local companies Ambrose Lighting and Slade Landscaping partnered with the Development Council to execute the display, with support from hospital staff noted as integral to the project’s success.

“Even if just one person gets screened because of what we’ve done, we’ve made a difference,” said Marvin Alligood, Vice-Chair of the Development Council, emphasizing the project’s potential impact.

The initiative began with an idea sparked by the sight of red lights in Raleigh, which led council member Stacey Lynch to envision a similar concept that would change with the colors of cancer. It became a passion project for the team, who saw it through despite challenges such as the pandemic.

The Development Council is hopeful that the lighting project will raise awareness and encourage community members to engage in preventive health actions.

“Our goal with the ‘Spotlight on Cancer’ is to not only catch the eye but to encourage action,” explained Lynch. “When people see these lights, we want them to remember to get screened. It’s all about early detection.”

According to Jack Piland, Chair of the Development Council, the lighting is just the visual component of a comprehensive awareness campaign. The council plans to accompany the light displays with a media campaign each month, including information on specific cancers and screenings available in the community.

During the event, Dr. Thomas Ruffolo, a gastroenterologist with ECU Health, highlighted the importance of regular screenings in preventing colorectal cancer, noting that recommended screening should start at age 45.

As the colors of the trees shift to represent various types of cancer each month, the Development Council remains dedicated to their mission: improving lives through awareness, prevention and the nurturing of mind, body and spirit.