Augustana College students shave their heads, raise over $12k for pediatric cancer research and awareness

By On Apr 10, 2022

ROCK ISLAND, Ill (KWQC) – According to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, more children are lost to cancer in the United States than any other disease.

Saturday afternoon, Augustana College students shaved their heads as part of Rho Nu Delta’s 10th annual St. Baldrick’s service event to raise awareness and money for childhood cancer research.

“Today’s mission is to end the stigma surrounding baldness and raise as much money as possible for childhood cancer research,” said Jack Kovarik, president of the Rho Nu Delta service. “If their hair is long enough, it can be donated to various wig companies for people who are bald from cancer.”

In total, 13 people had their heads shaved. Junior Janine Rudnicki donated 28 centimeters of hair.

“Donating my hair is very important to me. I saw my mom do it when I was younger. I’ve done it three more times, so I really wanted to be able to do that again and raise a lot of money to go to cancer research,” Rudnicki said.

Both Kovarik and Rudnicki said it is incredible to see Augustana students supporting the event.

“It feels great to know that the Augustana community is behind us in this event and that today we can put our differences aside to show real support for such a great foundation,” said Kovarik.

“It’s just amazing to see the impact that a small, local fraternity can make on cancer research in general,” Rudnicki said. †[It’s all about] being a kind person and supporting others, and supporting others in their struggle, and helping to make the world a better place.”

Kovarik said the event raised more than $12,000, which is enough money to enable 10 children to enroll in pediatric cancer clinical trials.

For more information on how to donate, click or tap here.