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When the American Cancer Society first contacted me to photograph the groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the Hope Lodge on Calhoun St., across from Rutledge Tower, I had not realized that I would be meeting one of the most amazing individuals in our area.

Margot Freudenberg grew up in a community of doctors and academics in her native Germany. It was there that she trained as a physical therapist. In 1940, as synagogues and human lives were being shattered across Europe, her family brought her to the United States.

She never forgot the warmth of the welcome that she received in South Carolina.

She quickly became a powerful voice for hope, connectedness, and positive change in the lives of others.

In 1970, she helped establish the first Hope Lodge, a place where cancer patients being treated at local hospitals can stay with their families. There are now 22 Hope Lodges across the nation, with 21 more being planned. The groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the Charleston Hope Lodge is a major milestone for the lifelong American Cancer Society volunteer.

On August 9, the Riviera Theatre at Charleston Place will host a tribute for Margot Freudenberg, on the occasion of her 100th birthday.

Regarding her 67-plus years of service to others, she says simply, “I have a debt to pay.”