Hamden’s ‘Coach’ Honored As Part Of National Lights Of Hope Ceremony

Contributed article

HAMDEN, CT — Last week, as dusk set in Washington, D.C. the nations Constitution Gardens were illuminated with more than 10,000 colorful luminary bags, each decorated with a loved one's name and cancer story. Among these were 50 oversized displays recognizing one individual from every state across the country, specifically honored as the state’s “Pillar of Hope” – including the late David “Coach” Koch of Hamden.

A longtime volunteer with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), Coach passed away almost exactly one year ago, on September 29, 2023. Up until his death, he was an active, well-loved and well-known advocate for cancer fighting public policy, known to Connecticut’s state and federal lawmakers for his long-time commitment.

“Coach was a cancer research beneficiary, titan of Connecticut cancer Advocacy, and fundraiser for cancer issues for over two decades,” said Bryte Johnson, director of government relations for ACS CAN in Connecticut.

Over the course of his advocacy tenure, Coach participated in countless state and national level advocacy events, including nearly 20 ACS CAN Leadership Summit & Lobby Days in Washington, D.C. He was a nationwide top-10 fundraiser for Lights of Hope every year since its inception.

“Despite a second cancer diagnosis, Coach continued to advocate for cancer research funding and to speak up for those diagnosed with cancer, whom he always called ‘heroes.’ Coach was an inspiration to all who knew him,” Johnson said.

In his own words from 2018, “I am blessed to have people in my life and in the community who believe in the work ACS CAN does and support these efforts,” said Koch. “As a survivor, I truly believe there are no good days, only great days. Spending my time helping others fight cancer is part of what makes this true.”

Each year, ACS CAN hosts its Lights of Hope event as a powerful tribute to remember loved ones we have lost to cancer and celebrate the millions of cancer survivors. States chose one honoree to be recognized as that state’s “Pillar of Hope” and featured on a large display at the event for others to learn from, and be inspired by, their story.

“Cancer affects everyone but does not affect everyone equally,” Johnson said. “Lights of Hope sends a visual reminder to our lawmakers that they must do more to help save lives from this horrible disease by ensuring everyone has a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer.”

As the advocacy affiliate of the American Cancer Society, ACS CAN works to ensure cancer is a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. The organization empowers volunteers nationwide to make their voices heard and influence public policy change that saves lives from cancer in Connecticut and nationwide.