Pray For Lace: The Importance of Connection and Support

Today we are celebrating a strong and resilient student here on campus. Lace Archambeau, a sophomore at McMurry University, has been in the hearts and minds of all of us after her cancer diagnosis in November 2025. Archambeau discovered she had a brain tumor last fall semester and has been fighting for her health and medical autonomy ever since. After learning of her diagnosis, the McMurry Art Department joined forces and worked to rally student support and campus engagement with a fundraiser to support Archambeau. A reception will be held today from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Amy Graves Ryan Lobby. As I gathered information to promote the event, I had the privilege of interviewing Archambeau, where she graciously shared details about her journey through her diagnosis.

“I first found out that I had a brain tumor on November 14th, 2025” shares Archambeau. “I told a healthcare provider that something was wrong after months of dealing with pain, but they denied it.” Archambeau describes the months leading up to her diagnosis as stressful and disappointing. It wasn’t until a trip to the ER where medical professionals finally issued an MRI and they found her tumor. Although she had answers, Archambeau’s journey was not over. Her diagnosis came with long doctors’ visits and intense surgeries that interrupted every aspect of her life.

This period of time Archambeau says was the most difficult time of her life. However, amidst the waves of uncertainty and frustration, Archambeau is grateful to her community for their support and encouragement. “I truly thought I would need to stop school,” she says, “but McMurry has made it possible for me to continue creating art. They have been incredibly supportive and I’m very thankful for the fundraiser and everyone who’s contributed to it.”

Among these contributors are Kathie Walker-Millar, Department Chair and Professor of Art, and Karalyn Wilson, a fellow art student and close friend of Archambeau.

Wilson has taken on the responsibility of teaching a clay workshop at the fundraiser. She says, “the fundraiser really reflects the passion students and professors/staff have for supporting their community and the arts.” A dedication Wilson appreciates and hopes inspires others to offer their support. There are many ways to show support at the event including buying original art, making bids at the silent auction, taking a clay class, and simply showing up and promoting the cause. “I’m grateful to be part of something like this for someone I really care about. It’s been amazing to see how many people have come to support Lace, and it is a reminder of how strong and caring this McMurry community is,” says Wilson.

Walker-Millar observes a similar testimony stating, “This event embodies the servant leadership emphasis, love, and spirit at McMurry University. We care and we take action.” The event is a way to make a positive impact on the prognosis of a strong and talented art student dealing with the diagnosis of cancer, and this fundraiser is a perfect example of the incredible impact community and collaboration can make together.

Archambeau left the interview with her own call to action stating, “I really encourage people to stand up for their health, to fight for it.” Because of her experience, Archambeau stresses the importance of self-persistence and advocacy. If it had not been for her determination, she may not have discovered her tumor.

Please join McMurry University to celebrate Archambeau’s incredible journey today in the Amy Graves Ryan Lobby. The sale will be held from 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. with a reception from 5 p.m. -7 p.m.