When it comes to cancer we often think of older adults… but every 3 minutes, a child in the world is given this devastating diagnosis. And the prognosis can be grim, one in five children diagnosed in the United States will not survive.Despite these statistics, less than 4% of all cancer research funding allotted by the federal government, goes to the study of childhood cancer.
This is where ordinary people step up to do something really extraordinary in a really upbeat and fun way. Last year it was over 57,000 ordinary people who went to “brave the shave” for St. Baldrick’s $38 million dollars for childhood cancer research.
This year, St. Baldrick’s hopes to make it to $50,000 and have a very special person to honor at the event.
On Saturday, March 14, 2015, the Innsbrook Pavilion will play host to the annual St. Paddy’s Palooza to benefit The St. Baldrick’s Foundation. The family-friendly, and free, festival plans to have live music, vendors, food trucks, Irish dancing, a petting zoo, and so much other entertainment.
At the heart of the event is St. Baldrick’s signature head-shaving event. Volunteers of all ages and both sexes sign up to shave their heads in solidarity with children who typically lose their hair during cancer treatment. Volunteers at the event help by raising money for childhood cancer research and by showing kids its okay to be bald.
This year, the event is honoring a special local hero, Grayson Dutton, 4 years old from Mechanicsville. In 2011, at 9 months old, Grayson was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, and then relapsed in September of 2014. Grayson has undergone surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, and continues his treatments. In the face of adversity, even at just 4 years old, he has shown remarkable strength, resilience, and courage. Treatment may prevent Grayson from attending the event, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do a lot to show your support.
You can help support Grayson and millions of children just like him at this incredible event. Take a lead role by being a team captain, or signing up to shave your head, make a tax deductible donation to the event, or volunteer in a number of other roles. www.stbaldricks.org/events/richmond
St. Paddy’s Day Palooza
March 14, 2015
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Facts and information provided by St. Baldrick’s Foundation.
