The eighth annual Wings of Hope Butterfly Release took place Sept. 12 on the campus of Cedar Crest College, Allentown.

Coordinated by the Cancer Support Community of the Greater Lehigh Valley, the event was a celebration of those touched by cancer.

Marilyn Clair, who has chaired the event for the past seven years, became involved in Wings of Hope when her late husband was diagnosed with cancer 10 years ago.

“I just wanted to volunteer and give back to the community,” Clair said.

Clair thanked all the sponsors, particularly Cedar Crest College, which donated the venue; local store owners who donated beverages; Crayola, which provided art supplies; and the hundreds of volunteers and local business owners who provide support every year.

Ulla Martz of Schnecksville, a retired licensed clinical social worker, worked at the cancer center at Lehigh Valley Health Network prior to retiring.

She now offers weekly and monthly Cancer Support Community of the Greater Lehigh Valley meetings, which are free to participants.

“People come here because they need to connect with others. This is a place where they are understood,” Martz said. “Cancer patients and families can feel fear and isolation. Here we offer education, hope and friendship... much improving the quality of life.”

Rob Vaughn, WFMZ-TV 69 News anchor, introduced guest speakers, announced raffle winners, and kept the crowd abreast of the pending rain, which held off just long enough for the noon release of the butterflies.

A message from the Cancer Support Community reads, “Just as the butterfly symbolizes transformation, so, too, does the Cancer Support Community of the Greater Lehigh Valley work to transform the lives of people and families affected by cancer through its vital programs.”