Most of us hope that in our lifetime we do something great and leave our stamp on the world. Lara MacGregor did exactly that with her organization Hope Scarves, and in her everyday interactions, connecting with people and helping to tell their stories.
The 2021 L’Oréal Paris Women of Worth National Honoree (voted by the public) changed the lives of many. After being diagnosed with stage II breast cancer at the age of 30 — while seven months pregnant — she came up with an idea. Following her diagnosis, Lara received a box of head scarves from a friend with a note that read, “You can do this!” It sparked something in her and soon after she founded Hope Scarves, an organization that supports people facing cancer. The non-profit collects scarves and stories from cancer survivors around the world to help spread hope to those undergoing treatment.
In 2020, Hope Scarves expanded to invest in metastatic cancer research, which raised more than $1 million for the cause to date. That same year, Lara was diagnosed with stage IV metastatic breast cancer — it only fueled her resolve to keep pursuing her goals to help cancer patientsaround the globe.
In just ten years, Hope Scarves has delivered more than 20,000 scarves to people in every state and 29 countries across the world, along with joy, inspiration and compassion. It’s a reminder to all of us as we recognize World Cancer Day in Lara’s honor, that the smallest gesture can make a big difference for someone facing a challenge. In January 2022, at the age of 45 Lara passed away. She leaves behind a legacy that shows us that upliftment, compassion and advocacy are some of the best treatments one can receive.
“To be recognized by L’Oréal Paris for my life’s work at this pivotal time in my story brings me deep joy,” she said in response to being a Women of Worth honoree in late 2021. “I strive to create hope, community and inspiration through Hope Scarves.”
In addition to the $45,000 grant in recognition of her selection as the 2021 Women of Worth National Honoree, L’Oréal Paris has commissioned and funded distribution for 5,000 scarves to extend the organization’s mission in 2022.
You can join in celebrating Lara’s extraordinary life by visiting HopeScarves.org to learn more about her story, the outstanding work of the organization, and to hear the stories of the courageous survivor’s whose lives she’s touched.
Next: Meet The 2021 Women of Worth Honorees Who Are Changing The World
Written by: Shalwah Evans: Photo Courtesy of L’Oréal Paris
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