Teens with Lupus Receive Encouragement from Miss USA Rima Fakih and Miss Teen USA Kamie Crawford and Dance with Sports Illustrated Model Damaris Lewis at Hospital for Special Surgery

New York City—December 16, 2010

Media Advisory

Young women and men living with lupus who are all members of Charla de Lupus (Lupus Chat)® Teen and Parent support group at Hospital for Special Surgery take center stage at their annual Holiday Talent Show. 

Project Sunshine volunteers Miss USA Rima Fakih and Miss Teen USA Kamie Crawford will kick off the evening by speaking with teens who are living with lupus about having confidence as they prepare to take the stage for the talent show. Damaris Lewis, a Sports Illustrated model and Project Sunshine volunteer, led a Dance Camp for the teenagers and will perform with the ensemble. 

 “Living life with lupus can be difficult on the body, mind and spirit,” said Erica Sandoval, Charla de Lupus (Lupus Chat)® Program associate, who works closely counseling teens with lupus. “This event empowers young women to stay active by engaging in fun activities enjoyed by all teens.”

 “Project Sunshine is pleased to bring ‘sunshine’ to adolescents in need, by restoring a sense of normalcy and inner courage to confront daily challenges,” said Beatrice Kernan, executive director, Project Sunshine an organization that provides free services for children facing medical challenges and their family members.

Media will have the opportunity to learn about lupus and interview and photograph teenagers, celebrity guests, as well as representatives from Hospital for Special Surgery and Project Sunshine.