Turning love, loss, and music into hope
By Emma Nestler, Senior Manager, Community Engagement
On April 18, 2026, something truly special happened in Imperial, CA. What began as a family gathering grew into an unforgettable night of music, art, and community, all in honor of a woman whose legacy continues to inspire.
The Glochella Music and Art Festival was more than an event. It was a tribute, a celebration, and a powerful reminder of what is possible when people come together with purpose.
A legacy of love and strength
Glochella was created in memory of Gloria Silva, a beloved mother and the heart of her family. Gloria was diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer in 2017 and passed away in 2021.
Her family shares:
“She had a high quality of life for most of those four years thanks to new drugs and treatments… Our family wants to contribute what we can so that other patients and families can have more time, and eventually, a cure.”
Gloria was known for opening her home and filling it with music, laughter, and togetherness. Those moments did not end with her passing. They became the foundation for something new.
“Those family gatherings filled with music and joy live on as treasured memories… Her courage and unwavering faith has inspired us to continue the fight against this disease.”
From backyard gathering to community movement
Glochella first began in 2022 as part of a milestone birthday celebration. Even then, it made an impact, raising $14,000 for lung cancer research.
This year, it grew into something even bigger.
Held at the family home, the 2026 festival welcomed over 200 guests, including friends, family, and community members who all came together to support the cause. The event featured five bands across two stages, food booths, a live and silent auction, and original artwork created and donated by family members. Attendees made donations directly to their LCRF fundraising page prior to the event and additional funds were raised during the auctions.
What stands out most is not just what was planned, but how the community showed up.
“Everyone we approached was eager to help… Our entire family, friends and community came together.”
Some of the most meaningful parts of the day were both thoughtfully planned and beautifully unexpected.
The family shared that they observed a moment of silence before the auction in remembrance of all those lost to cancer. However, there was lots of fun to be had which was true as some of the younger kids got to join in with the band on stage for a few songs.
By the end of the event, they had raised nearly double their goal.
A community rooted in hope
At its core, Glochella carried a simple and powerful message: “Research is the key… to giving patients and their families more time and hope.”
That belief is what brought everyone together and continues to drive their efforts. When asked what hope looks like, their answer was clear: “New treatments, new breakthroughs, new understanding.”
Glochella was created through a shared love, memory, and a desire to help others facing the same fight, friends and family came together in a way that made a real and lasting impact.
For anyone wondering if they can make a difference, this family has a message:
“Don’t underestimate the power of collective giving. When a group of people, no matter their means, comes together, they can truly make a meaningful impact.”
When reflecting on the experience, one moment stood above the rest:
“The best part… was how it brought our entire family closer together. How it kept Mom’s spirit and legacy alive in an effort to give hope to others.”
One word to describe it?
“Emotional. In the best way possible.”
And at the heart of it all:
“Fundraising for lung cancer research means… hope.”
Inspired to create your own event?
Events like Glochella show just how powerful community can be. If you have ever thought about hosting your own fundraiser, please reach out to us!
Whether it is a backyard gathering, a game or tournament, something tapping into your artistic side, a milestone celebration, or something completely unique, every fundraiser (big or small!) has the power to make a difference.
If you are interested in planning a Your Way fundraiser, we would love to support you. Our team is here to help you bring your idea to life, provide guidance along the way, and make sure your efforts have the greatest possible impact.
Email events@LCRF.org to get started. Together, we can turn your idea into hope for families facing lung cancer.