FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HAMILTON — Sept. 9, 2026 — Illuminight, presented by CIBC Wood Gundy, returns on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, with a new home at Westfield Heritage Village in Rockton. The event offers attendees a night of hope, legacy and support for world-class cancer care and research at Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre (JHCC).
Since 2018, Illuminight has raised more than $1 million to support the highest-priority needs at JHCC. With a 2026 goal of $225,000, funds raised will help advance patient care, research, education and equipment so that people across south-central Ontario can access exceptional cancer care when they need it most.
“Illuminight is a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together in support of people affected by cancer,” said Anissa Hilborn, chief executive officer of Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation (HHSF). “Every registration, donation and fundraising effort helps strengthen care, comfort, and hope for patients and families.”
The new venue will welcome a growing number of participants who come together each year to honour loved ones and support patients and families currently facing cancer. Guests will enjoy a 2.7 km night walk through the forested landscape, featuring the tribute bridge as a meaningful highlight, along with immersive light installations in the village centre, comfort food, live music, family-friendly activities and the return of the event’s beloved drone show.
Serving as Illuminight’s patient ambassador, Leea, a mom, teacher and coach, will share her story of being diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2020. After receiving treatment at JHCC, she was declared cancer-free in July 2023. “I’m fundraising so more stories like mine have a second chance,” said Leea. Read her full story here.
Illuminight is designed to welcome attendees of all ages and abilities. For guests who prefer not to walk the route, a tractor ride will be available through the village.
HHSF invites individuals, families, community groups and workplaces to register, donate or volunteer in support of Illuminight. For event details or to get involved, visit illuminightwalk.ca.
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About Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation
Celebrating 50 years of supporting excellence in health care, Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation provides vital funding to enable the best possible patient care. We inspire and motivate gifts that fund medical equipment and patient amenities, innovative research initiatives, essential redevelopment of clinical care spaces and support the education and training of health care providers.
As a registered charitable organization, we proudly support patients and families across south-central Ontario, and from outside the region, who receive specialized care at Hamilton Health Sciences including Hamilton General Hospital, Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre, McMaster Children’s Hospital and St. Peter’s Hospital. The associated programs at the Regional Rehabilitation Centre, McMaster University Medical Centre and Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre are also included.