As you probably know by now, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation is dedicated to finding better treatments and ultimately cures for all childhood cancers. To reach that goal, we know that we not only need to raise lots of money but we also need to increase understanding of what childhood cancer is, what it means for families fighting the disease, and just how many children and families it affects.
Although at times it is very difficult, Jay and I feel very lucky as parents to share our family’s story of childhood cancer with thousands of people around the country. Of course we have had some help through the media in spreading Alex’s mission and message, but we also have the opportunity throughout the year to visit businesses, schools, conferences, hospitals and many other venues. While there, we get to share our personal experiences with childhood cancer, and put a face to the cause.
When I give a talk, I always try to express to the audience the fact that we are not unique in our experience with childhood cancer - that there are millions of other families out there who share very similar experiences. Many audiences are surprised by how many families are affected by childhood cancer each year, and that it remains the number one disease killer of children under the age of 15 in the United States.
If you have spent any time on our website, I am sure you have been moved, as I have by the Hero Stories of children with cancer. In their parents’ words, we learn about these smart, cute, brave, and heroic cancer fighters and laugh, cry, and hope along with them. With all of these touching stories to share, along with the incredible network of families of childhood cancer that we are lucky to be a part of, we decided to create a program that would allow these families to share their stories, advocate for the cause, and take an empowered role in the fight that means so much to them.
So, with the help of Shirley, our Resources Coordinator, and input from some parents of children with cancer, we have created a program to allow family members of childhood cancer fighters to go out into their communities, represent the cause as no one else can, and talk about their personal experiences. In that regard, we are excited to introduce the “Hero Ambassador Program,” launched last week on our website. In just one week, we already have dozens of parents who have signed up to become ambassadors for Alex’s Lemonade Stand, for the cause, and for the cure!
To find out more about the Hero Ambassador program, or how you can become involved in it, visit:
- Liz Scott, Alex's Mom
February 12, 2010
