In September 2023, lifelong New Boston resident Charlie Clark received news that would alter the course of his life. Just two days into his new job at New Boston Property Management—and still within the 90‑day period without medical insurance—Charlie was diagnosed with Renal Cell Carcinoma (Kidney Cancer). Immediate surgery was required to remove the affected kidney.

The diagnosis came on the heels of another hardship. In November 2022, the Clark family had lost their home and belongings in the tornado that struck New Boston. Seeing the mounting challenges, close friends Matt and Stephanie Hawkins stepped in. Stephanie rallied the community, organizing a fundraiser that quickly became a powerful display of New Boston’s unity and compassion.

Charlie’s deep roots in the community made the response even more heartfelt. A 1983 New Boston High School graduate, he had spent decades serving the town—as a board member and coach for the New Boston Sports Association, a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader for 20 years, a volunteer firefighter, Chamber Director, and Pioneer Days Chairman. Stephanie felt strongly that it was time for New Boston to give back to someone who had poured so much of himself into others.

The community answered that call. The fundraiser raised $18,000, offering the Clark family much‑needed support during an incredibly difficult time.

By May 2024, after surgery and extensive treatment, Charlie received the news he had prayed for: he was cancer‑free. Inspired by his recovery, co‑worker Andy Craytor proposed a celebratory fundraiser—a Glow Walk for Cancer—to help with Charlie’s ongoing medical expenses.

But Charlie had a different vision.

While deeply grateful, he felt the event should serve a greater purpose. He insisted that any funds raised should support other families battling cancer and even provide scholarships for local high school seniors. His selflessness reshaped the event’s mission.

Andy agreed wholeheartedly, and once again, Stephanie Hawkins stepped forward to organize the inaugural 2024 New Boston Glow Walk: Glow for a Cure, bringing together family, friends, and community members to build something meaningful and lasting.

This vision inspired the formation of the Let’s Battle Cancer Together Foundation in 2024.

The funds raised from the Glow Walk during its first two years—along with additional fundraising efforts led by our board members and volunteers—have allowed us to provide meaningful, ongoing support to families in our community.

In 2025, we were able to assist local families with more than $35,000 in direct support, helping ease the emotional, physical, and financial burdens that come with a cancer diagnosis. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to expanding our outreach, strengthening our programs, and finding new ways to stand beside the families who need us most.

We will continue looking for every opportunity to support our community, because together, No One Battles Alone.