As fundraisers, believing in the cause you are advocating is of great importance. Many times your belief stems from personal involvement or because of your family.

For some, it is a mission to help others who have been affected by a situation or disease, which they themselves have been afflicted by. One such story is that of Alexandra “Alex” Scott of Philadelphia.

Alex, who is now eight years old, was first diagnosed with cancer two days before her first birthday. She has continued to battle this disease from then until today.

But here’s where Alex’s story becomes truly amazing. When she was just four years old, Alex asked her mom if she could have a lemonade stand to raise money for “her hospital”. In July of 2000, she made good on that promise and raised over $2,000 for Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.

Each summer since she has held a lemonade stand, raising money for various charities that support cancer research and support for children. I first saw Alex on the Today show last summer, and she has appeared on several other morning talk shows to tell her story. As word has spread, donations have poured in from around the world, and she has raised over $190,000 for pediatric cancer!

What can we learn from little Alex?

Most importantly, she demonstrates the wonder and beauty of life. Her entire life has been filled with hospital visits, treatments and sickness. Even with the pain she has experienced, she does not let that stop her from living life to the fullest. She sees hope and love where others may see despair. She gives hope to her family, other children with cancer, and everyone she comes in contact with. Let us peruse our dreams with such passion and love!

Alex shows us that one person can make a difference. When she first asked if she could have a lemonade stand, Her mother told her that it might be difficult to raise money fifty cents at a time; Alex’s response was “I don’t care, I will do it anyway.” Remember that when you are raising funds for your cause, every “fifty cents” matters.

Let us remember that we raise money to help people, the lives of children and adults will be touched beyond measure by our service.

To learn more about Alex’s story visit: alexslemonade.com

Alex’s Illustrated Book is now available. It has gotten rave reviews and 5 stars on Amazon: Alex and the Amazing Lemonade Stand

Update: While Alex never waivered in her desire to help other children battle cancer by raising money for cancer research, her own health deteriorated. On Sunday, August 1, 2004 she passed away peacefully in her Philadelphia Home.