Events: Arizona - Phoenix - Scottsdale

Every life has challenges. The best way to overcome them is to find the treasure in the wreckage, thereby giving the challenges purpose.

A 2nd Act’s live, curated storytelling performance, S.T.A.R.S.: Survivors Tell A Real Story, does just that. It features eight Valley women who have faced a terrifying diagnosis and are using their gifts of life and experience to give back to the greater good in their 2nd Acts. The event will take place at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 24, at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts (7380 E 2nd St., Scottsdale).

“Research supports the theory that there is great healing in helping, and these storytellers are doing wonderful things in the world,” said Judy Pearson, founder of A2ndAct.org. “And the value of a 2nd Act isn’t defined by size. Giving time one-on-one is just as valuable as creating foundations and building hospital wings.”

The intriguing research Pearson is referring to involved cancer survivors. Nearly 90 percent acknowledged that volunteering (what the organization that bears its name calls a “2nd Act”) helped boost their well-being, while nearly three-quarters of those surveyed reported that doing so helped lower stress levels. Almost a third of those surveyed who had chronic medical conditions, meanwhile, reported that helping others helped them manage their illnesses.

“Neither does a 2nd Act have to have a specific focus,” Pearson continued. “Animals, the environment, and education could all be fabulous 2nd Acts.”

Professionally coached and directed by a 30-year theatre veteran, each story of the eight-woman cast redefines courage and human potential, and provides inspiration for the entire audience. The performance will be emceed by a celebrity to be announced at a later date, and is underwritten by Scottsdale Medical Imaging, Ltd.

Funds raised by the S.T.A.R.S. performance support the programs of A 2nd Act, including workshops and micro grants. The grants provide seed money for local women survivors ready to launch or grow their 2nd Acts, allowing them to follow their dreams, give back to the world and give purpose to their cancer journeys. All money raised stays in the Valley of the Sun.

Tickets are $22 (plus a $4.50 theatre surcharge) and available at the Box Office, 480-499-8587 or online at scottsdaleperformingarts.org. For a limited time, the promo code B2G2 may be used to purchase 4 tickets for the price of 2. Free vouchers are also available from A 2nd Act for qualifying cancer survivors (while quantity lasts).

About A2ndAct.org:

Recognizing that helping is healing, the mission of A2ndAct.org is to celebrate and support women survivors of all cancers who are using their gifts of life and experience in a 2nd Act for the greater good. A2ndAct.org is an Arizona non-profit corporation and a 501 (c)(3) organization. All donations are tax deductible. To learn more please visit A2ndAct.org. For more information please contact Tom Evans, Evans Communications, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or call 480.622.4522.

About Scottsdale Medical Imaging Ltd.:

SMIL Medical Imaging offers a complete range of imaging solutions including 3D mammography, bone density testing, MRI, CT, Ultrasound and X-ray.  Our growing network of 15 centers of excellence is led by our 42 physicians meaning patient care always comes first. With over 33 years of advancing technology, independent research and world-class patient care SMIL Medical Imaging is recognized as one of the most respected radiology practices in the country and we thank patients, families, fellow physicians and healthcare providers for allowing us to serve your community.