Candlelighters Chapters
For over 30 years, Candlelighters has had a strong presence across Oregon and SW Washington through volunteer chapters in Southern Oregon, Mid-Willamette Valley, and Central Oregon. Our hub in Portland services PDX and SW Washington and hosts quarterly, statewide events. Our chapters are run by volunteers who have also walked the path of childhood cancer with their loved ones. All of our chapters host engaging events and activities that bring families together in their respective regions.
Mid-Willamette Valley Co-Chairs
Mary Lou Bradley, Robyn Thompson, & Sydney Wight
Mary Lou Bradley has been involved with Candlelighters since 1996 when her son, Chris, was diagnosed with ALL at nine years old. She is passionate about helping others experiencing childhood cancer in the Mid-Willamette Valley and dedicates her free time to building community.
Contact Mary Lou: (541) 517-9315 | mloubradley@comcast.net
Robyn Thompson has been part of Candlelighters since 1999 when her son, Jordan, was diagnosed with ALL when he was four years old. Robyn can be seen at the various events the chapters does, lending a hand and bonding with families.
Contact Robyn: (541) 521-8035 | robynthompson8035@gmail.com
Sydney Wight's son, Robert, was diagnosed with T-cell ALL (leukemia) in 2014. She’s been lending her creativity, energy, and time to Candlelighters for years.
Contact Sydney: (541) 337-2856 | sydstar2@gmail.com
Southern Oregon Chair
Ruth Staten
As a Southern Oregon native, Ruth has deep roots in this region. She raised her children in Medford, experiencing firsthand the trauma of pediatric cancer with her daughter who was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma the summer of 2008. We’re happy to share that her daughter is in remission and is now a new mom! Ruth has been chapter chair for over a decade and was a co-chair with the late Kimberly Carnegie Bruhn. Ruth prides herself on being a trusted resource for families battling childhood cancer.
Contact Ruth: (541) 301-8532 | oopie525@yahoo.com
Central Oregon Interim Chapter Chair
Salena Griffith
Salena’s passion for Candlelighters’ families led her to step in as interim chapter chair for Central Oregon in order to ensure that families in the region are taken care of and are able to build community. During her time as interim chapter chair, Salena has coordinated seasonal events in the Fall and Winter, as well as a Mom’s Night Out events.
Contact Salena: (503) 719-4244 | salena@candlelightersoregon.org