St. Blaldricks Event 2025 at GMS

In this episode of "Discovering Grayslake," the host, recording live from Agora, chats with Amy Corey, a passionate seventh-grade social studies teacher at Grayslake Middle School. Amy, the head organizer of the school's cherished St. Baldrick's event, shares the heartwarming origins and evolution of this fundraiser dedicated to childhood cancer research. The event, set for April 4th, features head-shaving and hair donations, fostering solidarity and community spirit. Listeners are encouraged to participate, donate, and spread kindness, highlighting the power of community in making a difference. Join the conversation and support this meaningful cause!

Event Site: https://www.stbaldricks.org/events/Grayslake2025

Blood Drive Sign-Up:  https://donors.vitalant.org/dwp/portal/dwa/appointment/guest/phl/timeSlotsExtr?token=FSnTYPKNlsoHzGo5qa%2BCHQ6CdAic7Ho7JfuRfH05L6g%3D

Shirt Orders: https://jamintshirts.com/collections/gms-st-baldricks-fundraiser

Discovering Grays Lake: The Heartwarming Impact of the St. Baldrick's Event

Welcome back to another episode of "Discovering Grays Lake," where we dive into the heart of our community to uncover stories that inspire, uplift, and bring us closer together. In this special episode, recorded live from the vibrant Agora co-working space, we sit down with Amy Corey, a dedicated seventh-grade social studies teacher at Grays Lake Middle School and the passionate head organizer of the St. Baldrick's event. This cherished annual fundraiser has been a beacon of hope and solidarity in our community for the past decade, raising funds for childhood cancer research and bringing people together in a powerful display of compassion and support.

The Origins of the St. Baldrick's Event

A Story of Solidarity and Compassion

The St. Baldrick's event has its roots in a touching story of solidarity. It all began when a child diagnosed with cancer faced bullying due to hair loss from treatment. In a heartwarming response, a group of adults decided to shave their heads in solidarity, sparking the creation of the St. Baldrick's Foundation in 2000. This foundation has since grown into a significant movement dedicated to supporting children battling cancer through fundraising and awareness efforts.

Bringing the Event to Grays Lake Middle School

Ten years ago, a student at Grays Lake Middle School expressed interest in participating in a larger St. Baldrick's event in Woodstock. With the support of the school's principal at the time, Marcus Smith, and a small group of student council members, the first St. Baldrick's event at Grays Lake Middle School was organized. Little did they know, this event would become a beloved tradition, deeply ingrained in the fabric of the school and the community.

The Event: A Day of Unity and Support

The Assembly: A Powerful Kickoff

The St. Baldrick's event kicks off with a full school assembly, where students and staff gather to witness the head-shaving and hair donation process. This assembly is more than just a spectacle; it's a powerful moment of unity and support. Barbers and stylists are on hand to help with the haircuts, and the atmosphere is electric with excitement and encouragement. This assembly allows students to see the tangible results of their fundraising efforts and understand the profound impact of their contributions.

Hair Donations: A Gift of Normalcy

In addition to head shaving, the event also includes hair donations for organizations like Children with Hair Loss, which