Stand Up To Cancer

I am a dancer. I have always loved to dance. When I was little I spent countless hours dancing around the living room to Pat Benatar, Gloria Estefan, and Michael Jackson. I created some pretty mind-blowing early 80's dance choreography, I must say. As an adult, my passion for dance led me to become a performer in New York City and dance in the aerial off-Broadway show "De La Guarda".

Dance is an amazing way to express yourself, to interact with others, and have fun. As part of the SU2C web team, my passion for dance led me to investigate all the ways dance can be used in the fight against cancer. What a great way to bring attention and fundraising dollars to this cause. I read about a danceathon that will take place on March 14, 2009. This fundraiser hopes to raise $250,000 this year. Check out their website: www.danceathon.org

Another amazing group helping in the fight against cancer is the Cancer Dancers. Their goal is to spread the message of hope and inspiration to young people and their families suffering from the devastating effects of cancer. They not only perform; they also mentor kids currently in treatment. They recently performed on the television show "The View." The troop was created by Christine Grimaldi who is an exercise and wellness practitioner at the Integrative Therapies Program for Children with Cancer. They are a truly inspiring example of how dance can be used to inspire and uplift those in need. Check out the website: Cancer Dancers

Another amazing way dance can positively impact those affected by cancer is through dance therapy. Dance therapy can improve self-esteem, reduce stress, decrease isolation, and encourage a sense of well-being. Dance is an excellent form of exercise and creates community. You can check out the website: Massey Cancer Center.

Another great article from the American Cancer Society is called "Dance Therapy". This article offers clear and reliable information about dance therapy.

I am currently combining my passion for both film and dance to create a Dancers Stand Up to Cancer Public Service Announcement. I am looking forward to exploring my own and my dancer's relationship to cancer through dance. I hope to finish the project in a couple of weeks.

Create and submit your own short films through the SU2C Filmmaker's Challenge. The deadline is August 1st. Check it out!

www.su2c.org/filmchallenge

-Amanda Boggs