Shania's Sunflower of Hope

As many of you know, I spend most weekend mornings coaching girls' hockey in the Markham-Stouffville Girls Hockey Association. It is great fun and seeing the little girls develop their hockey skills and develop into little stars over the course of a season is an unbelievable feeling.

I was reminded yesterday about the harsh reality of life. Not all children have the luxury of participating in these types of activities and as parents we often take our children's abilities for granted. One of the girls, that may arguably be our most improved player this season, has been through a horrific tragedy. She lost her older sister a few years ago to a fairly unknown type of cancer.

In June 2006, at the age of 7, her older sister Shania was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma. Neuroblastoma is a malignant tumour which mainly occurs in young children.

During her courageous battle, Shania had a dream. She would start a family fun fair and help the Hospital For Sick Children raise money for research and a cure for this disease. She was determined to get better and conquer the cancer that was invading her body. At the same time, Shania decided to give back to the community, by helping other children affected by neuroblastoma.

This courageous little girl, who loved sunflowers, had a vibrant personality and lively spirit, decided to organize a Spring Fun Fair. With the help of her family, friends and school, they created Shania’s Sunflower of Hope Fun Fair at the Markham Fairgrounds. The Fun Fair is an opportunity for a fun-filled, family-friendly day that will raise money for neuroblastoma research without taking a heavy toll on families’ wallets. At the fun fair you can experience a wide assortment of games, sports challenges, bounce on a wide variety of inflatables, facepainting, crazy balloon hats, great food and wide variety of local entertainment. Shortly after her first Fun Fair, Shania passed away from the terrible disease.

To date, Shania’s fundraising activities have generated $240,000.00. All the net proceeds that are generated are donated to neuroblastoma research at Sick Kids, through Shania’s Sunflower of Hope Fund.

This year, Shania's Sunflower Of Hope will take place on April 30, 2011 at the Markham Fair Grounds. I have committed to supporting this event this year, and in the future, and am asking for your support in making Shania's dream come true. Please let me know how you would like to help Shania's Sunflower of Hope accomplish its purpose and find a cure for neuroblastoma.

I expect to see each and every one of you at the Fair on April 30th, and am counting on you to help Shania's family realize her goal.


Asif

Asif Khan, Sales Representative
Re/Max Hall of Fame
Re/Max All-Stars Realty Inc., Brokerage