Raymond Cruz valiantly fought a battle with Stage 4 Ewing-like Sarcoma from 2017 to 2019. Throughout his battle, he was given the opportunity to share his message of hope with people through his music, from the hallways of Vanderbilt Children's Hospital to the stage of the Ryman. Ray and his mother, Blandina, started the Shine Your Light Youth Vocal Competition in 2019 to raise funds for the Vanderbilt Children's Hospital where Ray received his treatments. 

Ray's family and friends will continue the competition in Ray's name and with his spirit guiding them.