The SMA community is constantly trying to spread awareness for a disease that most have never heard of. SMA is relatively unknown despite being #1 genetic killer of children under two. We are always looking for unique and creative ways to help get people informed. When Mrs. Sheldon, the librarian at Rolling Ridge Elementary School (school Jadon attends) came to us with her Flat Stanley idea, we were overwhelmed with her creativity and enthusiasm as well as the potential “reach” of this project.
We feel Mrs. Sheldon explains it best in this short video:
All 450 students at Rolling Ridge Elementary have read a funny book titled, Flat Stanley, written by Jeff Brown. The book is about a young boy named Stanley Lambchop. He is accidentally squished “as flat as a pancake” when a bulletin board falls on him. Stanley is fine, except for the fact he is very flat. Stanley discovers some advantages to being flat. He can slide under doors, go into sidewalk grates, and even fold himself up small enough to fit into an envelope. When Stanley wanted to visit friends in California, his parents folded him up and placed him in the mail.
All the students made their own Flat Stanley and they have been sent near and far. Accompanying each Flat Stanley is an SMA warrior or angel. Over 100 SMA kiddos are represented!
The project is simple, when someone receives a packet we simply ask that they take their Flat Stanley and SMA Warrior/Angel on some adventures. Take them to fun, exciting places, hang out with you at the movies or just have them at Christmas dinner but make sure to take pictures and send the pictures back so we can see where they have been. We hope to have pictures from all over the world. Pictures can be emailed to: flatsrr@olatheschools.org
Here is another blog telling what we want you to know about SMA: SMA Awareness – What We Want You to Know
Many Flat Stanleys and SMA Warriors/Angels have already been out doing some pretty awesome things. Check out these adventures!
Jadon's Hope Blog 
What caring and wonderful idea.
We love this project. The students get so excited seeing their Flat Person and their SMA Warrior hanging on the wall. The adventures are just beginning. Thank you to everyone participating.
Amazing idea!!!! I want a flat Stanley!!! My son Alexander has sma type one, I hope this spreads awareness like never before!!!