Holly has been living with brain cancer since 2017, meeting every challenge with courage, grace, and an infectious sense of humor. A Pekin native known for her joyful spirit, generous heart, and amazing baking skills; Holly (Lowe) Quarles is the kind of person who shows up for others. Now, it’s our turn to show up for her.

Friends and family are coming together to host the Hope for Holly Benefit on Saturday, July 12, 2025 and the community is invited to attend. The event will take place from 4pm to 8pm at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Peoria, IL. 

The benefit will support Holly and her family with medical expenses as she continues treatment for Grade 4 Anaplastic Astrocytoma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. Following her third surgery in February, Holly completed proton radiation therapy this spring and is continuing chemotherapy.

One of Holly’s greatest wishes is to take her 8-year-old son, Maxwell, on a special trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter—creating magical memories together. Through this benefit, we hope to help make that dream a reality.

Tickets will be available at the door, with cash and credit cards accepted. Each ticket includes a plate of delicious comfort food: a pulled pork sandwich, mac & cheese, chips, dessert, and a drink. Admission to the event is $15 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. The benefit will also feature a wide range of raffle and silent auction items, from themed baskets and local restaurant gift cards to sports memorabilia and even a 50” TV. There will be kid-friendly activities as well, making this a fun and welcoming event for the whole family.

For those who are unable to attend but still wish to support Holly, donations can be sent via Venmo to her mother, Denise Wood (@denise-wood-81). Please include “Holly’s Benefit Donation” in the comment.

Holly continues to meet each day with joy and resilience. This benefit is a chance for the community to return the love she so freely gives—and help her create a lasting memory with her family.

Learn more and RSVP on Facebook: bit.ly/HopeforHolly