2012 Shine On! Fuji Challenge

The Tyler Foundation journeys to the summit

This summer, the Tyler Foundation will be leading a group of climbers to the top of Mt. Fuji. But the reward will be more than the sunrise. Participants will be carrying Beads of Courage (r) to the top to inspire children fighting cancer in Japan.

Small in size, these beads have been hand made and donated by Japanese glass bead artists from around the country. Worn by a challenger–someone undertaking a personal challenge–it becomes a symbol of strength and courage. Children in the Beads of Courage (r) program receive colourful beads as meaningful symbols of milestones they have achieved during their cancer treatment. A glow in the dark bead represents radiation; a white bead, chemotherapy; a bead with a face, hair loss.

On average, children receive 25 beads a week, 100 a month, and 900 after 9 to 12 months, the average treatment time in hospital. Those summiting Mt. Fuji this summer with the foundation will take a bead to the top, symbolic of their personal commitment to a challenge, which will then be given to a child in hospital when they are most in need of a boost of courage. These special Team Beads of Courage (r) beads represent the transfer and gift of the challengers energy and well wishing in a tangible token that can remind and inspire children fighting cancer.

From the artist who has hand crafted the bead, to the challenger journeying with the bead, to the child on their own treatment journey, Team Beads of Courage (r) is a powerful connection of kindness, energy and courage.

So all are invited to join the climb, fundraise, give their strength and energy to children facing their own challenges in hospital and of course, see the sunrise.

For more information or to register: email joy [at] tylershineon [dot] org or visit the website.