Through the Years
Explore the remarkable journey of Miles Perret Cancer Services in Lafayette, LA through our history. From the Perret family's gift in developing the inaugural Games of Acadiana in 2001 to surpassing 20,000 client families served in 2022, learn about the significant milestones and impactful moments that have shaped our organization's mission to help local families fight, survive, and live with cancer.
August 2001
1st Games of Acadiana
The first Games of Acadiana was held in August 2001. This fundraiser provided the funding for the Miles Perret Center to open its doors and begin serving clients. Games may look a little different now, but it is still the signature fundraiser for the organization providing funding to help thousands of clients every year.
June 2002
Miles Perret Center opens
After working with local oncologists to learn the needs of cancer patients, the Miles Perret Center opened and began serving clients in June 2002. In 2008, the center would change its name and become Miles Perret Cancer Services as it is still known today.
2003
First Camellia Crossing
Although it wouldn't become Acadiana's Gleaux Run until 2012, the first Camellia Crossing was held in 2003. Now, every year, over 3,000 participants come together on Thanksgiving Eve to light up Camellia Boulevard and help local families fight, survive, and live with cancer.
2004
Children's Programs Begin
The first children's program began in 2004. This later became SMILES for Miles which features a monthly outing for parents and children to enjoy quality time together in the company of other families going through similar experiences.
2008
Mobile Miles hits the road - Name changes to Miles Perret Cancer Services
The Mobile Miles unit began extending services throughout Acadiana in 2008. Each week, Mobile Miles travels to outlying parishes and rural areas to bring support to those that cannot travel to the Lafayette office.
June 2009
The Wellness Center Opens
The Wellness Center is a full service gym with guidance tailored to the needs of Miles Perret clients. In addition to open exercise, the Wellness Center holds classes such as Yoga, Toning, and more. Since opening in 2009, many clients have state they have made lifelong friends through the Wellness Center.
2020
Celebrated 20th Anniversary of Games of Acadiana
In August of 2020, Miles Perret celebrated the 20th anniversary of Games of Acadiana with the inaugural virtual scavenger hunt. The scavenger hunt allows participants to complete fun tasks and activities to win points towards a prize drawing. Every year, thousands of submissions are received from indiviudals and families as they Play with a Purpose.
2022
20,000 Families Served
In 2022, Miles Perret Cancer Services achieved a new milestone 20,000 of client families served since its inception.