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Darrell Wood Receives 2026 Capital Pride Honors Breaking Barriers: Community Impact Award Founder and Executive Director of Cues For Cancer Recognized for Transformative Leadership, Advocacy, and Service to the LGBTQ+ Community NORFOLK, Va. — Cues For Cancer proudly announces that Founder and Executive Director Darrell Wood has been named the recipient of the 2026 Capital Pride Honors Breaking Barriers: Community Impact Award, one of the organization's highest honors recognizing individuals whose work has created meaningful and lasting impact within the LGBTQ+ community.Presented as part of the 2026 Capital Pride Honors celebration under the theme "Have the Audacity, In Full Fuchsia," the award recognizes individuals whose leadership has helped eliminate barriers to the social, personal, and professional advancement of LGBTQ+ people while creating significant impact at the local, national, and global levels.A Norfolk-based nonprofit leader, artist, advocate, and technologist, Wood has dedicated his career to creating spaces where healing, visibility, and belonging can thrive. Through Cues For Cancer, the nonprofit organization he founded to support individuals and families affected by cancer through the performing arts, education, advocacy, and community engagement, he has elevated conversations surrounding survivorship, mental health, and equitable support systems.His advocacy extends deeply into the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in addressing the unique experiences of queer and gender-diverse individuals navigating cancer diagnoses, treatment, and survivorship. Through partnerships with organizations including Man Up to Cancer's Virginia and Pride Chapters, Wood has helped ensure LGBTQ+ cancer patients and survivors are seen, supported, and empowered throughout their journeys."Congratulations on this well-deserved honor," said Robert L. York, Emeritus Council President of Pride365. "Our community is stronger because of your leadership, advocacy, and dedication to uplifting others. We know your impact will continue to inspire future generations as we celebrate Pride's past, present, and future together.""Darrell has never viewed advocacy as a title. He has viewed it as a responsibility," said Dr. Elissa Peterson, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for Cues For Cancer. "Whether supporting individuals impacted by cancer, advancing LGBTQ+ visibility, or building partnerships that strengthen communities, he leads with compassion, courage, and purpose. We are proud to see his work recognized on such a meaningful stage."Beyond his work with Cues For Cancer, Wood served on the Planning and Logistics Committee for WorldPride Washington, D.C. and currently partners with Pride Barcelona in support of its bid to host WorldPride 2030. He also serves as Director of Membership and Community Engagement for Pride in Federal Service.An artist, advocate, technologist, and community leader, Wood continues to build bridges across healthcare, the arts, technology, and LGBTQ+ advocacy. He holds a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence from Maryville University and is currently pursuing doctoral studies at Walden University.As one of this year's Capital Pride Heroes and Grand Marshals, Wood will help lead the 51st Capital Pride Parade and participate in Capital Pride Festival events celebrating the resilience, diversity, and progress of LGBTQ+ communities.About Cues For Cancer Cues For Cancer is a Norfolk, Virginia-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring hope both on stage and off for individuals and families affected by cancer through the power of the performing arts, education, advocacy, and community engagement.About Capital Pride Alliance Capital Pride Alliance serves as a catalyst for advocacy, education, community engagement, and celebration for the LGBTQ+ community in the National Capital Region and beyond. Through year-round programming and major Pride events, the organization advances equity, visibility, and inclusion while honoring the history and future of LGBTQ+ communities.Media Contact Rishi Sood Board Member, Cues For Cancer Communications &amp; External Relations Rishi@Cues4Cancer.comDarrell Wood Founder &amp; Executive Director Cues For Cancer Darrell@Cues4Cancer.comwww.CuesForCancer.com

Darrell Wood Receives 2026 Capital Pride Honors Breaking Barriers: Community Impact Award

<h2>Introduction to Art as Advocacy</h2>Art has long served as a powerful tool for advocacy, offering a voice to the voiceless and shining a light on pressing social issues. In Virginia, this is particularly true when it comes to raising awareness about cancer's impact. Artists across the state are using their talents to create pieces that not only inspire but also educate and motivate change.<figure id="figure-82fcfpkicjmmffo2lp"><img id="82fcfpkicjmmffo2lp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27zEEU558dWJO9E0kpW5akocbcRoQcqxYe7ZHZzVVl5r1yxyYYp4Khw1tI1xa8hj.jpg" alt="art advocacy" title="art advocacy" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27zEEU558dWJO9E0kpW5akocbcRoQcqxYe7ZHZzVVl5r1yxyYYp4Khw1tI1xa8hj.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>The Role of Art in Cancer Awareness</h3>Art has the unique ability to convey complex emotions and messages in ways that words sometimes cannot. By tapping into the visual and emotional senses, artists can communicate the struggles and triumphs associated with cancer. This makes art a compelling medium for raising awareness and encouraging dialogue around the disease.Through exhibitions, installations, and community projects, artists highlight the personal stories of those affected by cancer, shedding light on the human experience behind the statistics. This approach fosters empathy and understanding, crucial elements in advocacy and change.<h3>Community Initiatives and Projects</h3>Across Virginia, numerous initiatives are harnessing the power of art to advocate for cancer awareness. Community murals, for instance, have become a popular medium. These large-scale artworks are often collaboratively created, involving local residents, cancer survivors, and professional artists.<figure id="figure-xh1slhgn5hmmffo5ue"><img id="xh1slhgn5hmmffo5ue" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/224MWfIYzmbN3nfaVAzAaHq6P4Kx9j7Z1m6kqWoQJXa7rqE7gIgRRb0O4pi5xvVa.jpeg" alt="community mural" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/224MWfIYzmbN3nfaVAzAaHq6P4Kx9j7Z1m6kqWoQJXa7rqE7gIgRRb0O4pi5xvVa.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>These projects not only beautify neighborhoods but also serve as public reminders of the ongoing battle against cancer. They invite conversation and reflection, encouraging community members to participate in awareness and fundraising activities.<h3>Art Therapy for Cancer Patients</h3>Beyond public awareness, art also plays a therapeutic role for cancer patients. Art therapy programs in Virginia hospitals and clinics provide a creative outlet for patients to express their emotions and cope with their experiences. These programs are often led by professional art therapists and are tailored to meet the needs of individuals at various stages of treatment.Research has shown that engaging in creative activities can reduce stress, improve mental health, and enhance the overall well-being of patients. This underscores the multifaceted benefits of integrating art into cancer care.<figure id="figure-ifimvi20v9mmffobs1"><img id="ifimvi20v9mmffobs1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/23v0Lnxz7EaBYqPQQ7WzKG7XXxr9bRdr5QRA3eh8bDSQXw9zfiCx6WjSzfXVXPtR.jpeg" alt="Asian elderly people enjoying karaoke at a care facility" title="Asian elderly people enjoying karaoke at a care facility" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3>Notable Artists and Their Contributions</h3>Several Virginia-based artists have gained recognition for their contributions to cancer advocacy. Their works often feature in exhibitions dedicated to raising awareness and funds for cancer research. These artists use their platforms to share personal stories and insights, making the issue more relatable and urgent for audiences.By participating in charity auctions or donating proceeds from their sales, these artists play a crucial role in supporting cancer research and patient support services. Their commitment to the cause inspires others to get involved, amplifying the impact of their work.<h3>How You Can Get Involved</h3>If you're inspired by the role of art in cancer advocacy, there are several ways you can get involved. Consider attending local art exhibitions or events dedicated to cancer awareness. These gatherings often provide opportunities to learn more about the cause and contribute to fundraising efforts.<figure id="figure-jxn37mljb9mmffoh58"><img id="jxn37mljb9mmffoh58" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/31TCQSqYDBN8RUtktmDKL9aKchU2291ZfbHWmyIVQsx7VMrC8hZwrHAqlZnFQbys.jpeg" alt="art exhibition" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/31TCQSqYDBN8RUtktmDKL9aKchU2291ZfbHWmyIVQsx7VMrC8hZwrHAqlZnFQbys.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>Additionally, supporting artists who focus on cancer advocacy, either by purchasing their work or spreading the word about their projects, can make a significant difference. Volunteering for community art projects or participating in art therapy sessions can also be a rewarding way to contribute.<h2>Conclusion</h2>Art as advocacy offers a powerful means of addressing cancer's impact in Virginia. By leveraging creativity and community engagement, artists and advocates alike can inspire change and support those affected by the disease. Whether through creating, supporting, or simply appreciating art, everyone has a role to play in this important work.

Art as Advocacy: Cues For Cancer's Impact in Virginia

Darrell Wood Beats Cancer at CHKD, Gives BackThrough two chemotherapy rounds and two surgeries, one to remove lymph nodes that left a 16-inch scar from his breastbone to groin, Darrell Wood kept pushing past his exhaustion.Battling testicular cancer, the disease that struck his older brother at the exact same age (18 years, 4 months), Wood finished his senior year at Peninsula Catholic High School in Newport News, Va. He lost his long blonde hair and his appetite but performed the lead in the school’s musical, “Beauty and the Beast,” and appeared in shows at Busch Gardens. In his first semester at Virginia Wesleyan College in Norfolk, Va., Wood earned a 3.2 GPA as a music and theater major.He also found extra energy to give back to Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, which he credits with saving his life. Wood has visited hospitalized kids in show costume, shared his story at hospital fundraisers and now hopes to create theater workshops for children.“Cancer took a lot out of me, but I also learned how much I could still do,” says Wood, currently cancer-free. “I had ‘Why me?’ moments, but my message is to never let anything hold you back from pursuing your dreams.”Doctors originally suspected appendicitis or a hernia when Wood went to an urgent care center complaining of abdominal pain in February 2013. Instead, he was shocked when they found a testicular mixed germ cell tumor—just what his older brother had faced about a year earlier. The family had no prior history of the disease.A week later, Wood had surgery to remove the mass. In October, doctors found traces of cancerous cells in two lymph nodes and took out more than 25 as a precaution.Wood was bald when he and the “Beauty” cast came to sing, play, draw and make friendship bracelets with CHKD patients, whose faces lit up at the prince and princess costumes. “Darrell showed those kids, ‘I’m making it through. I’m doing what I love.I’m proud of my bald head,’” says Lauren Babashanian, a child life assistant at CHKD. “That’s empowering.”Dreaming of a New York City musical theater career, Wood undergoes regular checkups (as do Robert and their younger brother Dillan, 17). Cancer has changed him in countless ways: his straight hair grew back curly, for one, and he suddenly loves spicy foods. He focuses on the positives and the big picture. “If this hadn’t happened,” he says, “I wouldn’t have gotten to meet so many amazing people.”

Taking Center Stage: Darrell Wood Beats Cancer

Cues For Cancer

Cues for Cancer is a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to inspiring hope, healing, and human connection through the transformative power of the performing arts. Founded on the belief that creativity can be a lifeline during life’s most difficult moments, we exist to support individuals, families, and communities impacted by cancer by blending artistic expression, community engagement, and compassionate advocacy into meaningful action.
At our core, we recognize that cancer affects far more than the body — it touches identity, emotional well-being, relationships, and the sense of belonging. Cues for Cancer creates spaces where storytelling, music, theatre, and shared experiences become pathways toward resilience. Through performance-based programs, workshops, and community initiatives, we empower participants to process their journeys, rediscover confidence, and reconnect with joy in ways that feel authentic, inclusive, and empowering.
Our organization develops and produces creative programs such as healing-focused arts workshops, community performances, awareness events, and educational initiatives that bring together survivors, caregivers, artists, and supporters. We also offer platforms that spotlight real stories, celebrate survivorship, and encourage conversations around mental health, identity, and the complex realities of living with or alongside cancer. By collaborating with theatres, artists, educators, and community partners, we bridge the gap between artistic expression and social impact.
Cues for Cancer serves a diverse audience that includes cancer patients and survivors, caregivers, members of the performing arts community, healthcare advocates, and supporters who believe in the power of art to create change. We are especially passionate about reaching individuals who may feel unseen or isolated during their journey, offering opportunities to connect through creativity rather than focusing solely on illness.
Beyond programming, we advocate for awareness, inclusion, and community-driven support systems. Our work emphasizes compassion, accessibility, and a forward-looking vision where art becomes a tool for healing and empowerment both on stage and off. Through partnerships, events, and advocacy efforts, we strive to build a sustainable movement that celebrates life, fosters resilience, and reminds people that even in the hardest chapters, there is still beauty, voice, and hope to be found.
Cues for Cancer is more than an organization — it is a community where stories matter, creativity heals, and every individual is invited to step back into the spotlight of their own life.

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Darrell Wood Receives 2026 Capital Pride Honors Breaking ...

Art as Advocacy: Cues For Cancer's Impact in Virginia

Taking Center Stage: Darrell Wood Beats Cancer