Alex's Lemonade Stand: Northwestern Mutual raises money for cancer research

FRANKLIN (WITI) -- It's a simple concept that children have been doing for years to raise a few extra bucks, host a lemonade stand. Now, adults are catching on.

"Lemonade is awesome, nice and refreshing," said Christina Sutter as she sipped a cold glass of lemonade.

"It's a cause that I really believe in and I really wanted to show employees how we could get involved and how we could make a difference," said Jenny Rae Pearson.

Pearson was inspired by the story of Alex Scott, who was diagnosed with cancer before her first birthday.

In an effort to save other kids from suffering through the same pain she did, Alex began hosting lemonade stands to raise funds for childhood cancer research.

"Now every first weekend in June is called National Lemonade Days and it's an opportunity for people all across the country to host their own lemonade stand," said Pearson.

After learning about a friend's son being diagnosed with cancer, Pearson got many of her colleagues at Northwestern Mutual to help set up a company lemonade stand.

Northwestern Mutual also has a foundation, which has a program within it to raise money for childhood cancer research.

"It's really been kind of personal to me as well," said Pearson.

This effort carries on Alex's legacy as she lost her battle to cancer at the age of eight.

Pearson has been blown away by the support she's received by selling T-shirts, bracelets, snacks, and of course lemonade.

"$50 funds one hour of research. Our $8,000 goal would fund an entire month of research. And the fact that we've already exceeded that is tremendous," said Pearson.

It's all about fighting childhood cancer one cup at a time.

If you are interested in learning more about Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation or donating to the cause CLICK HERE.