Join Auntie Anne's and Alex's Lemonade Stand in the Mighty Fight Against Childhood Cancer

With all of the advancements and inventions that have occurred during this past decade (and those that came before) there is no denying that mankind as a whole has come a long way.

But is creating smaller phones and faster computers what truly matters?

For me (and parents everywhere), nothing is as important as the health and safety of my children. Therefore, even though I enjoy seeing what new gadgets and devices debut year after year, I would much rather hear about the eradication of diseases and illnesses that threaten children and the organizations that are doing everything they can to help prevent kids from getting sick (or helping cure those that are).

Which is just one of the reasons that I was thrilled to hear that my favorite pretzel company, Auntie Anne's, has once again partnered with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) to help fight childhood cancer!

Unfamiliar with Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation? Where have you been?

This incredible foundation emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of cancer patient Alexandra "Alex" Scott (1996-2004). At the age of 4, Alex announced that she wanted to hold a lemonade stand to raise money to help find a cure for all children with cancer. Since Alex held that first stand, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a national fundraising movement, complete with thousands of volunteers across the country carrying on her legacy of hope.

To date, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation has raised more than $75 million toward fulfilling Alex’s dream of finding a cure, funding over 375 research projects nationally.

I can't help but tear up every time I have the chance to promote ALSF and the research and children that they have helped support over the years. Would the possibility of a cure for childhood cancer be where it is today without ALSF? Probably not. And would incredibly brave kids like Jordan Vincent be able to inspire all of us as a Mini But Mighty Hero?

Jordan, a 15-year-old living in California, was diagnosed with cancer in January of 2003 when she was only 4. So, while today she may appear as a typical teenager that loves her iPad, fashion and the color purple, this "cancer slayer" is in fact fighting a daily battle against a rare brain cancer and has spent over half of her life in cancer treatment.

I can't even begin to fathom what Jordan and her family has been through (and continues to deal with), but I love being able to find out about her incredible strength and passion and the optimism that she brings to each and every day. You're amazing, Jordan!

You can find more information about Jordan and the stories of many other Childhood Cancer Heroes on the ALSF website, where you will no doubt be moved by the strength, courage and bravery that these children portray.

It's time for all of us to come together and follow in Alex Scott's vision to find a cure for all children with cancer. Head over to ALSF to find out more and, even better, take part next week in the amazing Mighty Fight Against Childhood Cancer campaign to raise even more money and attention.

Mark your calendar, set your alarm or tell Siri to remind you — from July 28 to September 15, you've GOT to visit and take part in this campaign!

Auntie Anne's is donating money in my name to Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation for sharing this information, but all thoughts and opinions are honest and my own.