What do you need 12 of to make one?
That was the question posed Monday morning to students, teaching staff and parents at Lord Byng elementary in Steveston, as six children and three adults were poised to have their long hair cut for a very good cause.
The answer — as far as Richmond-based Wigs for Kids BC is concerned — was that it takes a dozen ponytails to make one wig for custom-made human-hair wigs for children and teens at BC Children’s Hospital, who have suffered hair loss due to cancer treatment or other serious illnesses.
The event in front of the entire school populace also raised more than $500 for Wigs for Kids, with Grade 1 student Jenna Baier managing to pull in an impressive $450.
Jenna’s efforts weren’t surprising, given that it was her idea in the first place to organize the event.
“About a year ago, Jenna heard of some children she knew doing this and decided there and then she wanted to organize an event,” said her mom, Sheila Baier.
“She’s been growing her hair like, forever; she’s only had trims up until now.”
But was she excited ahead of Monday morning? “Oh yes. She was up at 6 a.m. on Sunday, in my bedroom saying ‘tomorrow is the day,’” said her mom.
Baier said, on Jenna’s request, she contacted Wigs for Kids and met with them and it went from there.
As well as help from the school, professional hair stylists — Shari Rogers and Dina Reynolds — offered their services free of charge.
A volunteer-run organization, Wigs for Kids BC also helps families pay for medications and supplies that are essential for treatment but not covered by their medical plan.
