Lewistown Cancer Rally Supports 35 Local Families

After years of organizing Relay for Life, Jennica Deavor faced a choice when the event ended in 2024. She could walk away, or find a new way to help local families fighting cancer.

Deavor chose hope. She and fellow volunteers created the first Mifflin County Cancer Rally, happening Saturday at Kish Park from 4 to 8 p.m.

The event supports the Bob Perks Fund, which has already helped 35 families and provided $30,000 in assistance this year alone. Unlike national fundraisers that send money to research, every dollar raised stays in Mifflin County to help neighbors pay bills, afford treatment, and keep going during the hardest days.

"I am going to talk about my own testimony as a cancer survivor myself, reminding others that no one is alone in the journey and encouragement," Deavor said.

The rally kicks off at 4 p.m. with Executive Director Cindy Brown sharing how the Bob Perks Fund works. Cancer survivors will receive a special meal at 4:30 p.m., followed by live music from three bands throughout the evening.

Food trucks including Danny's BBQ and Pretty Little Pancakes will serve attendees. Raffle baskets and 50/50 tickets offer chances to win while supporting the cause, with winners announced at 7:15 p.m.

The evening closes with a remembrance walk at 7:45 p.m., honoring those who've been touched by cancer.

The Ripple Effect

When Relay for Life volunteers couldn't get support from the American Cancer Society, they didn't see it as an ending. They saw an opportunity to create something better suited to their community's needs.

Volunteer Colby Guyer noted this marks the Bob Perks Fund's 20th anniversary, but the first time the organization has held a local rally in Lewistown. The fund has quietly helped residents for two decades, but never had its own volunteer board in Mifflin County until now.

By keeping fundraising local, organizers ensure donations directly reach families who need help today. That means a parent can afford gas to drive to treatment, or a family can pay rent while dealing with medical bills.

Deavor and her team proved that when one door closes, determined people build new ones.