Asian Unity unites for cure for cancer
CU-Boulder students to shave heads to raise money for childhood cancer research
Monica Ly, staff writer
March 15, 2007

BOULDER – As a child, my mother scolded me for putting scissors to my Barbie’s head. Apparently its hair didn’t grow back like humans.

Certain that their locks will return and the prospect of a receding hairline far in the future, a group of students from Asian Unity at the University of Colorado at Boulder will shave their heads for childhood cancer research with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation March 17 at The Republic of Boulder at 1095 Canyon Blvd.

“If it helps children fight cancer, then it’s worth it,” AU member Tim Ung said. “Hair grows back, it’s no big deal.”

Chemotherapy, used to treat cancer, causes hair to fall out. Inspired by their bravery to endure this fate, those interested in the cause voluntarily give up their tresses while being sponsored by family, friends and others who feel compelled to donate. 2007 marks the eighth year of St. Baldrick’s events and the foundation hopes to raise more money for cancer research in addition to the $9 million already donated in past years.

“St.Baldrick's is close to my heart because it carries such a deep meaning,” said Jaylene Seong Stewart, campus coordinator for the event. “It may sound corny, but children really are our future. They will be the future leaders of our world and I want all kids to have an opportunity to grow to their full potential.”

The shaving takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on St. Patrick’s Day. AU students Ung, Quan Le, Brent Young, Henry Huang, Hoa Nguyen, Paul Liao and Quang Than are volunteering their heads. Free and open to the public, anyone can come and watch the hair disappear.

“Anyone can participate,” Stewart said. “People of all ages can go bald. Sometimes, families have their heads shaved together, and it’s always great to see people with nice long hair go bald.”

Donations to the shavees can be made online at http://www.stbaldricks.org/participants/team_info.html?TeamID=824.

Monica Ly is a staff writer for AsiaXpress.com. You can contact Monica via e-mail at Monica.Ly@asiaxpress.com.