It was a powerful evening at Spartan Stadium as the region gathered to show their support for survivors of cancer. The community came together for the 30th Lima Relay for Life to help raise money for the American Cancer Society Friday evening. The collected funds will go toward cancer research and education along with supporting cancer patients and families. The evening started with the Mercy Health St. Rita's cancer survivors celebration dinner inside Lima Senior followed by the survivor lap around Spartan Stadium. Whether at dinner or on the track, the sight of the community coming together is meaningful for everyone, including cancer survivor Kenneth Wills.

One local man, Tuesday evening, shared his personal story of struggle earlier in his life and how he turned that pain into a positive transformation. Leroy Eddy talked about his journey to a full crowd at the Center for Peace and Reconciliation. Eddy was born in Sandusky, Ohio and later moved to Wapakoneta. During his childhood, Eddy was bullied for the way he looked and endured both physical and emotional trauma. In his late teenage years heading into adulthood, Eddy experienced trouble with the law that landed him a prison sentence, and that prison term was the pivotal moment that helped transform his life from hate and pain to love and success.

One local woman took her personal story to advocate for world peace, reconciliation, and friendship.

SPENCERVILLE, OH (WLIO) - The Johnny Appleseed Metro Park District taught kids why they might not always see animals when they go to the park. 

HANCOCK COUNTY, OH (WLIO) - Santa Claus brings presents to the good boys and girls, but who brings presents to the animals in the woodlands? T…

Parents brought their young kids to the Lima Public Library to enjoy Thanksgiving-themed activities. The kids listened to a few story books, made music with wooden sticks, sang a few rhymes, and made crafts to get into the holiday spirit. The library says that events like this are beneficial to children.