ALSF commemorates "a decade of standing for hope" by holding high profile lemonade stands

Foundation originating from front yard lemonade stand of cancer patient, marks milestone with lemonade stands at the Super Bowl & Pro Bowl

Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer (ALSF) is commemorating "a decade of standing for hope" by holding a string of high profile lemonade stands, the first taking place at the Pro Bowl and Super Bowl. 2010 marks 10 years since cancer patient Alexandra "Alex" Scott (1996-2004) held her first front yard lemonade stand to find a cure for childhood cancer.

ALSF hopes to hold 10 high profile lemonade stands this year to bring attention to how imperative the battle against childhood cancer remains. Enlisting the help of celebrities and events, ALSF will shine a light on the number one disease killer of children under the age of 15 in the U.S. The first lemonade stands were held as part of the Game Day Fan Plaza at the Pro Bowl and Super Bowl after the NFL embraced Alex's cause. To officially kick off the year, Alex's family was joined by San Francisco 49ers players Takeo Spikes and Patrick Willis for a celebratory toast on Sunday, January 31.

"Knowing that Alex had a small presence at the Pro Bowl and Super Bowl, and more importantly, that pediatric cancer was acknowledged at one of the world's most famous sporting events, allows me to believe that together, we will find cures for childhood cancer within the next ten years," said Liz Scott, Alex's mom.

Since Alex held her first lemonade stand to find a cure for childhood cancer, ALSF has continued her mission. The foundation has funded over 125 research projects leading to significant discovery including: the identification of three genes associated with the risk of neuroblastoma; the uncovering of a protein in Ewing's sarcoma patients that may suppress the effects of chemotherapy; and linking mutations in two genes to nearly three-quarters of gliomas.

In addition to funding cutting-edge research, ALSF has worked to improve the quality of life for childhood cancer patients through a nurse researcher program. Most recently ALSF created a Travel Fund to assist families who need to travel for treatment, and a yearly childhood cancer symposium to provide families with an opportunity to learn about issues of treatment and beyond.

"We remain committed to finding new ways to treat and cure childhood cancer, but we also know that programs like the Travel Fund and the educational symposium make a difference for families every day," said Jay Scott, Alex's dad.

As the summer months approach, ALSF will hold more high profile lemonade stands to raise awareness for childhood cancer, which will affect more than 12,000 children this year in the United States.

SOURCE Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation