An 11-year-old cancer survivor from Jefferson Hills, Allegheny County, will switch on the tree at the PPG Place ice rink during Pittsburgh’s Light Up Night on Saturday, Nov. 21.
Paxton Renk, 11, will light the tree at 6 p.m. as part of the American Cancer Society’s annual Tribute of Light Celebration. The free event begins at 4:30 p.m. at The Rink at PPG Place, with a procession honoring people affected by cancer scheduled for 5:45 p.m.
Paxton was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a soft-tissue cancer in his bladder, in 2017, when he was 2. He underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, followed by additional surgery and years of scans. He is now cancer-free, though he remains under the care of specialists, according to his family.
“For our family, watching Paxton light the tree is a symbol of celebration and hope,” his mother, Jackie Renk, said in a news release. She said the moment also honors families facing cancer and the people who supported the Renks during Paxton’s treatment.
The evening’s program will include performances by Natalie’s School of Champion Baton Twirlers, skaters from the RMU Island Sport Center Figure Skating Academy, and local singers Olivia Sperber and Lorelai Hedgepth. Erika Jay of Q92.9 FM will serve as emcee.
At 5:45 p.m., volunteers carrying illuminated tributes will circle the rink in honor or memory of cancer patients and survivors, caregivers and families. Paxton and his family will then take part in the tree lighting.
The rink is scheduled to open for public skating after the ceremony. The event is free to attend, though skating has a fee. Tributes can be purchased in advance through RunSignUp. A limited number will also be available at the event.
