On May 15th, 2009 at the age of five, I was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called Rhabdomyosarcoma. While trying to cope with childhood cancer, I was introduced to a program called Beads of Courage at Children’s of Alabama. Beads of Courage helped me cope with the difficulties of having cancer. I received a bead for various steps in my journey like having chemotherapy treatments, radiation treatments, staying overnight in the hospital, MRI/CT scans, blood and platelet infusions, losing my hair, and other special beads for overcoming my fears.  These beads are my story of my battle and victory over cancer.

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and I have founded a fundraiser called Sydney’s Coins for Courage to help other children cope with cancer just as I did. In the past two years, the community has helped me raise over $13,000 to help encourage children battling cancer.  I hope to inspire children to be brave, strong, and faithful just as I was during this difficult time in their life.

You can make online donations at: http://www.crowdrise.com/SydneysCoinsforCourage2013 until 09/30/2013, you can visit one of the businesses listed below through 09/30/2013 to deposit loose coins, paper money, or checks made payable to Beads of Courage.  All donations are tax-deductible and will be used to encourage children battling cancer in Alabama!  Even $5.00 can make a difference in another child's life.  

Today, at the age of nine, I am 3 ½ years cancer-free!  Help me celebrate life from cancer and while helping to encourage others in the battle against cancer at Children's of Alabama by donating to my fundraiser!

      To learn more about me, my journey, and my hope to encourage other children, you can also visit me at: caringbridge.org/visit/sydneynewton

Thank for your support!

Miss Sydney Newton

1 Corinthians 16:13