Write a commentThis year’s St. Baldrick’s Day in Oswego head-shaving fundraiser for childhood cancer research funds will have a more family-friendly feel to it. Planning committee member Terra Pritchard said, “We want families to come and have a good time, whether they know anyone shaving or not.”
To that end, there will be face-painting, cotton candy and popcorn, live music, and more. There will also be a bed-sheet of handprints made to support and encourage young cancer patients at local hospitals. Characters from some favorite children’s movies might also make an appearance. Admission is free to all.
And among the 100-plus shavees registered to “Rock the Bald” this year are some younger shavees. Six of the seven team members of The Oz Brygade are boys and girls from Hannibal; there are also six Oswego boys comprising the Oswego Minor Hockey Association team. “And Team #22 is shaving in honor of a 9th grader at Jordan-Elbridge High School,” said lead organizer Dan Witmer.
The St. Baldrick’s Foundation is the nation’s top private (non-government) funder of childhood cancer research. In 2017, St. Baldrick’s raised more than $36 million for research grants, trial testing, and more. Locally, the Oswego events have now raised more than $600,000 in the past 12 years. “It’s not too late to join in on the fun and ‘Brave the Shave,’” said Witmer. “You can make a donation, join a team, or make your own team at the last minute. The website is open all year long.”
The 12th annual St. Baldrick’s Day in Oswego is scheduled for this Sunday, April 15, from 12-3 PM at the Lake Ontario Event and Conference Center on East First Street in Oswego. “We accept walk-ins, but only shavees and volunteers who raise more than $50 get a St. Baldrick’s T-shirt,” added treasurer Sandy Pike.
