Some of the performers assemble on stage during the finale at a previous “Rising Stars” Talent Show, which features pediatric cancer patients, their family members, and SBUMC staff.

Instrumentalists, vocalists, and dancers will take center stage at the 5th “Rising Stars” Talent Show and Art Exhibit, which features pediatric cancer patients, their family members, and Stony Brook University Medical Center staff as the performers. The event takes place in the Student Activities Center on Stony Brook University’s West Campus on December 6, 2009.

Patients, families and the community have supported “Rising Stars” since the first performance in 2003. The show gives patients a chance to showcase their talents and express themselves through theater and art. The forum provides an opportunity to promote a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and self-confidence among these children. An art exhibit, featuring many of the children’s paintings and drawings, will follow the main program during the reception.

“When children have cancer, they often see themselves as different and may choose to isolate themselves from their peers,” says Rosemary A. Mahan, R.N., of SBUMC Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, and Director, Rising Stars. “Self esteem and feelings of accomplishment may diminish, yet through it all there remains a spirit of determination and resolution that allows them to press forward.”

Previous talent shows have featured children performing many types of acts, including instrumental and vocal solos, instrumental ensembles, various dance routines, and karate demonstrations.

Rising Stars is sponsored by the Sunrise Fund, which raises awareness about childhood cancer and provides programs for pediatric oncology patients and families treated at Stony Brook University Medical Center.

Admission to Rising Stars is free, and seating is open. The first act kicks off at 2:00 pm. For more information, please call 631-444-2899.

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