Illuminating Hope to Hold 4th Annual SIDS Benefit May 6

By Kip Tabb – 

Early afternoon crowd at 2011 Illuminating Hope.

After losing their infant to SIDS, John Lenhart and his wife, Jessica, directed their grief into action. Working with First Candle, an advocacy group for SIDS research and knowledge, the Lenharts teamed up with Lynette Sumner of Aqua S for the first “Illuminating Hope” event three years ago.

This year’s event, scheduled for Sunday, May 6 hopes to build on last year’s success. Describing last year’s happening, Lenhart said, “The restaurants and local businesses really came through. I was overwhelmed. This is an event that’s an inclusion, not an exclusion.

His thoughts were echoed by Sumner. “This is where it all comes together,” she said. “Kids, families, the restaurants donated everything. This is the Outer Banks at its best.”

Ticket price is a suggested $25 donation, but Lenhart wants everyone who can make it to come. “If you couldn’t afford that, we’ll take what you can afford,” he says.

Last year’s event was so successful that very little is changing in 2012. “We are following the same format as last year,” Lenhart says. “Incredible food prepared by 17 of the best local restaurants, complimentary beer, wine and bottled water all afternoon, silent auction and 50/50 raffle, and live music throughout the entire event. We will have great bands again this year, as well as more entertainment – full size bounce house for the kids in addition to Magic Mike, corn hole and other fun family activities.”

For more information about SIDS and SIDS research go to www.firstcandle.org.

“First Candle is an incredible 501(c)(3) non-profit and has wonderful people working for them,” Lenhart says. “Your contribution or donation is 100% tax deductible