Fairfield Selectwoman Sherri Steeneck, a 1977 graduate of Andrew Warde High School, will have her head shaved Friday evening at 5 o'clock for a very good cause. Steeneck is taking part in one of many St. Baldrick's annual head-shaving marathon fundraisers at Osborn Hill School to help raise money to fight childhood cancer. She's taking pledges, donations of any amount with no minimum, and her community goal is $10,000."I decided to do this because I know a number of young people who passed away over the years from a variety of childhood cancers, and the funds raised go to research for cures," Steeneck told me via email earlier today. "I hate seeing sick kids. Last year, Brendan Casey, a student at Osborn Hill, and his dad, Marty, a co-worker of mine, did this and I contributed to it.
"This time, I decided to make a commitment to it. It's a great cause," added Steeneck, who also attended Osborn Hill School as a child. "It's only hair. It'll grow back," she admitted. "It also shows solidarity with everyone who loses their hair in treating their cancer. I have some adult friends who have gone through that, too."
The mission of the St. Baldrick's Foundation is to raise awareness and funds to cure childhood cancer. While battling cancer, children lose not only their hair, but years of their childhood, and sometimes their lives. Participants in a St. Baldrick's event shave their heads in exchange for donations towards research."Last year, like every year, was a tough year for families dealing with cancer in Fairfield," Steeneck continued. "This year is no different. At the Relay for Life we held in honor of (the late former Fairfield Selectwoman) Denise Dougiello, I met several young recovering cancer victims. They were inspiring, to say the least. It is hard enough to see an adult suffering, but to me, even harder to see a child in that situation. Sadly, one close to us, Robbie, lost his battle after having been in remission at the relay.
"When Marty Casey talked about this, I thought I might actually be able to do something useful to help find cures to childhood cancers. I didn't want to shave my head and not for $1,000, but neither do they want to lose their hair, go through chemo, etc. Maybe this will help one more child, perhaps someone you know and love."
This event at Osborn Hill School is child-friendly and will be attended by Cub Scouts from Pack 199. No reservations are required. Head shaving is being provided by Michelle Varrone and Salon V stylists, 1877 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield. Pizza will also be provided, compliments of Pazzo Pizza, 2505 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield. There will also be raffle prizes.
According to the St. Baldrick's Web site, "At a St. Baldrick's event, something amazing happens. People who normally shy away from the very thought of childhood cancer find themselves compelled to support this cause after looking into the face of these brave children who are smiling broadly as their friends and family members proudly display their newly shorn heads. Volunteers and donors see it can be fun to support a serious cause. Young cancer patients and survivors see how many people care."
It's a simple concept, a fun time and a very effective fundraiser - since its founding in 2000, the St. Baldrick's Foundation has raised over $34 million with headshavings in 18 countries. Checks can be made out to St. Baldrick's, or go online to www.stbaldricks.org and find Sherri Steeneck. Checks may also be sent to The Higgins Group, attention Sherri, 1530 Post Road, Fairfield, Connecticut, 06824.
Good luck, Sherri. The alumni of Andrew Warde High School are rooting for you and for a cure to childhood cancer. Please, help support Sherri and fight childhood cancer. Thank you.
Paul
Please sign the AWHS Guest Book.
Visit the Andrew Warde High School Gift Shop.
Watch the AWHS 1976 vintage "film".
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