Lara MacGregor, the founder of Hope Scarves, was 30 years old and seven months pregnant when she was first diagnosed with cancer. In a heartfelt gesture, a friend of a friend facing cancer sent her a box of scarves along with a note that read, "You can do this." This simple act of kindness became the inspiration for Hope Scarves.
Today, Hope Scarves is a global nonprofit organization based in Louisville, Kentucky, dedicated to supporting individuals facing cancer through scarves, stories and research. The organization collects scarves and personal stories from survivors and passes them on to those undergoing treatment, offering comfort and solidarity. Since 2012, over 38,000 Hope Scarves have been shared with individuals battling more than 90 types of cancer across all 50 U.S. states and 37 other countries. The organization has received national recognition for its innovative and compassionate approach to cancer support.
Seven years after her initial diagnosis, Lara developed metastatic breast cancer. Though she would no longer "beat" cancer, she chose instead to live life over cancer. Recognizing that research is essential to transforming the cancer experience, Hope Scarves established the Metastatic Breast Cancer Research Fund in 2016. Since then, the organization has raised and invested $1.3 million in groundbreaking research—from basic science to clinical trials—aiming not just to expand treatment options but ultimately, to find a cure for this relentless disease.
Although Lara passed away in 2022, her legacy endures. The Hope Scarves team continues to expand her vision, now partnering with over 70 hospitals nationwide to integrate Hope Scarves into patient care. The organization recently launched the Hope Capes program, bringing courage and comfort to pediatric cancer patients and their families. With over 2,200 stories collected, Hope Scarves is committed to amplifying diverse voices, prioritizing outreach to Hispanic communities and ensuring representation across all genders.
Lara’s light continues to shine through Hope Scarves, offering hope, connection and inspiration to all who face cancer.
To learn more visit www.hopescarves.org