Justin Flannery Hilton demonstrated remarkable determination in his battle with cancer. Although he ultimately lost his fight, his resilience and sense of purpose inspired the creation of “K’s for Cancer” in 2013 as a tribute to his legacy.
The organization’s name reflects Justin’s love of baseball, where “K” signifies a strikeout. The hope is that cancer, too, can one day be struck out and eliminated.
“We are a volunteer non-profit charity, a 501(c)(3), that helps cancer patients and their families with direct and immediate financial support,” Rex Hilton, father of Justin, told Webb Weekly. All money stays within Lycoming County and goes only to those patients and families. They have the option to receive the money via a Sheetz gift card or a Weis gift card.
Hilton added, “We host two major annual events: an Irish celebration each March and a golf tournament on the first Friday in August. While we hold smaller events throughout the year, most of our funding comes from sponsors and donations.”
Since 2013, the organization has distributed approximately $450,000 and assisted around 1,000 families.
He emphasized that continued support for the community depends on ongoing event sponsorships and donations.
According to Hilton, K’s for Cancer first connects with patients through the UPMC Hillman Cancer Treatment Center. Patients receive an initial $100 in gas or food cards and may apply directly for an additional $150 each year while treatment continues.
To qualify for support, individuals must be receiving cancer treatment and reside in Lycoming County. Treatment may occur at any location.
“K’s” board consists of family members and friends.
Currently, their officers are:
Lori Moore, CPA, Chairman of the Board, Jamie Rose Hilton, President, Jason Hilton, Vice President, Karen Kibler, Treasurer, Beth Armanda, Secretary. Members at large are Rex Hilton, Catherine Hilton, June Zimmerman, Brandon Flannery, Dennis Hosey, John Roskowski, and Cecilia Fink.
“We have a close relationship with the New Trail Brewing and its owners. They were instrumental in our initial start- up in 2013 and have continued to be tremendously supportive,” Hilton said.
I can personally attest to the positive impact of K’s for Cancer. They supported a close friend during her cancer treatment, for which she was deeply grateful. She participated in the K’s for Cancer 5K Run at New Trail Brewery several times. Sadly, she passed away three years ago despite her courageous efforts.
For more information about K’s for Cancer, please visit ksforcancer.org.
