Hilton Head Island, SC, September 15, 2025
News Summary
The community of Hilton Head Island has come together to support five-year-old Ares Flora, who was diagnosed with leukemia. A fundraiser at Rollers Wine and Spirits drew nearly 100 attendees, helping raise funds and awareness for Ares and his family. Local children joined the effort by selling lemonade and doughnuts, showcasing the community’s unity in supporting Ares during this challenging time. A GoFundMe page has also been established to assist with Ares’ medical needs.
Hilton Head Island Community Rallies to Support 5-Year-Old Ares Battling Leukemia
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina – The local community came together to support five-year-old Ares Flora, who was diagnosed with leukemia on July 1. A fundraiser organized by Ares’ family took place at Rollers Wine and Spirits, drawing nearly 100 attendees who gathered to show their support and help raise awareness for leukemia. Funds raised during the event will assist the Flora family as they navigate Ares’ ongoing medical challenges.
Ares’ parents, Eddie and Sara Flora, highlighted that community support can extend beyond financial contributions. They emphasized the importance of blood and plasma donations, as well as the necessity of bone marrow transplants, which can be hard to find, especially since suitable matches for Ares within their own family have been rare. Ares has been spending considerable time in hospitals, which are located an hour away from his hometown of Ridgeland, adding extra stress to the family during this difficult time.
The fundraiser provided an avenue for family, friends, and local residents to connect and show their support. Attendees had the opportunity to purchase wristbands that included food and drink, with proceeds contributing to Ares’ medical expenses. Many of Eddie’s colleagues from the service industry participated in the event, demonstrating the strength of their support network.
In an inspiring show of community spirit, local children also engaged in fundraising efforts by selling lemonade and doughnuts to contribute to Ares’ cause. This initiative brought together kids who expressed that assisting Ares felt rewarding and meaningful. The participation of young supporters speaks to the unity and compassion shared by the community around Ares’ battle with the disease.
Ares has missed critical milestones, such as his first day of school, which adds emotional strain to the family. Despite these challenges, Ares continues to exhibit resilience and encourages others facing difficulties to persevere and “not give up.” His joyful spirit has not only lifted his family but has also inspired those around him.
Additionally, the Flora family established a GoFundMe page to further assist Ares during his ongoing fight against leukemia. This page serves as an additional resource for individuals wishing to support the family during this challenging journey.
This event is just one of the many ways the Hilton Head Island community is standing behind Ares and his family, rallying to support them through this life-changing experience. Whether through monetary donations, blood contributions, or emotional support, the sense of unity has been vivid and powerful in this tight-knit community.
About Ares Flora
Ares Flora is a spirited five-year-old who was diagnosed with leukemia, a type of cancer that affects blood cells. He has spent considerable time in the hospital coping with treatment while missing out on important childhood milestones. His family’s efforts to raise awareness about the importance of blood and bone marrow donations reflect their commitment not just to Ares but to the broader community affected by similar health challenges.
Community Involvement
The efforts of the Hilton Head Island residents highlight a profound sense of community. From organized fundraisers to spontaneous lemonade stands, children and adults alike have embraced the opportunity to make a difference in Ares’ life. This collective action not only provides tangible support to Ares and his family but also fosters a spirit of caring within the community.
Support and Resources
For those looking to support Ares and his family, monetary donations can be made through the GoFundMe page, while other assistance, such as blood and plasma donations, can be coordinated through local healthcare providers. Each form of support plays a crucial role in enhancing Ares’ well-being during his treatment journey.
Conclusion
The Hilton Head Island community’s support during Ares Flora’s fight with leukemia serves as a remarkable demonstration of unity, compassion, and hope. As Ares and his family continue their journey, the outreach and encouragement from their neighbors will undoubtedly help them cope in the days ahead.
FAQs
What type of cancer was Ares diagnosed with?
Ares was diagnosed with leukemia.
What initiatives have been taken to support Ares?
A fundraiser was organized, along with a GoFundMe page and local kids selling refreshments.
Where did the fundraiser take place?
The fundraiser was held at Rollers Wine and Spirits on Hilton Head Island.
Why is community support important for Ares’ family?
Community support helps with both financial challenges and raises awareness on issues related to blood donations and bone marrow transplants.
How can people help Ares?
People can help through monetary donations via the GoFundMe page or by contributing blood and plasma donations through healthcare providers.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Ares Flora | 5-year-old boy battling leukemia, diagnosed on July 1 |
| Fundraiser Location | Rollers Wine and Spirits, Hilton Head Island |
| Attendance | Nearly 100 community members |
| Community Support | Blood, plasma donations, and fundraising efforts including lemonade and doughnut sales by children |
| Goal of Fundraiser | Raise funds and awareness for leukemia support |
| Ongoing Support | GoFundMe page set up for Ares and his family’s needs |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WJCL: Hilton Head Community Rallies for Ares Flora
- Wikipedia: Leukemia
- WJCL: Fundraiser for Ares Flora
- Google Search: Blood Donation
- WJCL: Community Supports Ares
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cancer
- WJCL: Parents Share Experiences
- Google News: Leukemia Support Fundraiser
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
