FOUNDATION starts with a smile! Shining Stars has changed my lfe." The children in our programs, like lex, are often very fragile. We provide Alex Sherman was just nine years old when he was diagnosed with Burkitt's Lymphoma, a very rare cancer characterized by fast growing tumors. His entire family's life changed overnight. Alex underwent grueling treatment for his cancer, including chemothcrapy and surgery. His family was constantly split up. Alex's father lost his job because he couldn't travel. The family lost their insurance, and medical bills piled up. Alex and his siblings were emotionally traumatized, as they dealt with fears no child should have to face a lot of medical care behind the scenes so that we can bring the experience of the outdoors to the kids without constantly reminding them of their illness," said Dr. Larry McCleary, Medical Director for the Shining Stars "The Shining Stars enables children with complex cancers and physical challenges to experience activities like skiing, which is often something they have only dreamed about. It creates magic on the snow You have probably seen signs of the Shining Stars Foundation around townm. Whether it is a banner over Main Street, toy drive boxes at local businesses, or kids in bright red bibs taking over the slopes of Buttermilk, the Foundation is a staple in the community We could never put on our programs without the overwhelming generosity, support, and dedication of so many in the Aspen community. We are so grateful to be a part of this community," said Kathy Gingery, CE0 and Founder of the Shining Stars Foundation. That's when the Shining Stars Foundation stepped i Alex was invited to attend the Aspen Winter Games Program with the Shining Stars Foundation. This program, which is made possible by the generosity of local volunteers and donors, brings 70+ pediatric cancer patients to the Inn at Aspen at the base of Buttermilk Mountain each March for a week of adaptive skiing and snowboarding. Thanks to experienced adaptive instructors and a 24/7 on-site medical team, the Aspen Winter Games Program is able to serve children who are often too sick to attend programs with other organizations In addition to skiing and snowboarding, children also participate in fun social activities, including a Disco Dance Party. snowmobiling, swimming, and morel These activities encourage kids to develop lifelong friendships through which they gairn strength and support for the jouney ahead At the Aspen Winter Games, Alex had the chance to be a kid again. In the midst of some of his hardest days, he found hope. "Shining Stars helped me and my family find hope and happiness again," said Alex. "Thank you!" by the rwmbees 70+ 80+350+ programs + events offered each year children applying for the 2019children +family members Winter Games (March 8-15, 2019) applying for services in 2019 YOUR help is needed to support the Shining Stars Foundation this holiday season! www.ShiningStarsFoundation.org 970-925-STAR PO Box 1308, Aspen, CO 81612