The medical center’s annual St. Baldrick’s Foundation fundraiser will be held today from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Durham Outpatient Center’s west atrium.
Again this year, a dedicated group of physicians, nurses and staff members from the clinical enteprise are joining the St. Baldrick’s mission to raise money for cancer research. Through the support of individual sponsors, each volunteer “shavee” collects money for the foundation. In exchange, they shed their hair to show solidarity with patients who’ve lost their hair during cancer treatment.
“It’s hard enough for kids with cancer to deal with being sick, let alone looking sick too without their hair,” said Mandy Arens, pediatric oncology nurse practitioner at the medical center. “Now these staff members will sport the same ‘do’ to show support for how their young patients are feeling.”
Aside from the federal government, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation is the largest source of research funds for pediatric cancer research in the United States. It raised more than $34 million in 2013.
The team has a fundraising goal of $10,000 this year. Anyone interested in donating to St. Baldrick’s Foundation can do so online or in person at the event.
This year, 19 people are scheduled to be shaved. Those making a last minute decision to go bald for a great cause can show up to the event this afternoon, no appointment required.
What a wonderful thing!
I was so nervous to shave my head this afternoon and my very brave nephew Kameryn decided he woud go up on stage with me. I was no longer afraid. Kameryn has been battling Leukemia for about 2 years. He is a very strong and brave boy. I am so proud of the person he is.