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Zion Today
By the People, for the People
Community Rallies for Photographer Nicole Olinger's Cancer Battle
Benefit event on April 18 to support Prophetstown resident's treatment journey
Apr. 14, 2026 at 9:23pm
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A community comes together to support a local photographer's courageous fight against cancer.Zion TodayNicole Olinger, a renowned local photographer in Prophetstown, Illinois, has been fighting stage 4 breast cancer since last summer. The community is coming together this Saturday for a benefit event to raise funds for her medical and travel expenses as she continues her courageous fight.
Why it matters
Olinger is a beloved figure in the Prophetstown community, known for her photography work with the local school district and her active involvement despite her health challenges. The outpouring of support for the benefit event demonstrates the tight-knit nature of the town and the community's commitment to standing by one of their own during a difficult time.
The details
Olinger, who owns Nicole Olinger Photography in downtown Prophetstown, was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 and underwent a double mastectomy. However, the cancer returned last summer and has since metastasized to her liver. She has been receiving treatment at the City of Hope cancer center in Zion, Illinois.
- Olinger was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020.
- She was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer that had metastasized to her liver in August 2025.
- The benefit event is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026.
The players
Nicole Olinger
A renowned local photographer in Prophetstown, Illinois, who has been battling stage 4 breast cancer since August 2025.
Gabe Olinger
Nicole's husband, who is supporting her through her cancer treatment journey.
Tirzah Renkes
A friend and event organizer who is helping to coordinate the benefit for Nicole Olinger.
What they’re saying
“Our communities are so amazing and they are not letting Nicole fight this battle alone. It's clear in the amount of donations and support we've received that Nicole and her family are so loved by everyone. They're our friends, our neighbors, and our family, and showing up for them was never a question – they'd do the same for any one of us and we're going to knock this one out of the park for her!”
— Tirzah Renkes, Event Organizer
What’s next
The benefit event on April 18 will feature a variety of activities, including a rubber duck race, a pulled pork dinner, raffles, auctions, and more. All proceeds will go directly to Nicole Olinger to help cover her medical and travel expenses as she continues her cancer treatment.
The takeaway
This community-driven effort to support Nicole Olinger during her cancer battle exemplifies the tight-knit spirit of Prophetstown and the willingness of its residents to rally behind one of their own in times of need. The outpouring of donations and volunteer support for the benefit event underscores the town's commitment to ensuring no one fights these challenges alone.