Reeves College instructor to donate locks, raise funds for St. Valentine's Day Hair Massacure

Edmonton - February 11, 2010 - While Valentine's Day may be special for couples in North America, a number of Edmontonians, including professional athletes and local celebrities, are preparing for Friday, February 12, 2010 when they will shave their heads as part of the eighth annual St Valentine's Day Hair Massacure. This year, a Reeves College Medical Office Assistant instructor is hoping to raise funds for her participation in the event.

"My goal is to raise $1000.00," says Reeves College's Dawn Leverenz. "My hair is 10 inches in length as well, so it is long enough to be made into a wig."

Participants in the Hair Massacure raise funds and awareness by either shaving their heads or dyeing their hair pink. Hair that is 10 inches or longer can be donated for wigs.

Leverenz first participated in the Hair Massacure in 2007 when a few people she knew personally were affected by cancer. She shaved her head in their honor. This year, however, she hopes to encourage more people to become involved, any way they can.

"Many people comment that they could never shave their hair off, but they can donate, so they do," she adds. "Knowing that my hair will be enjoyed by someone who is facing the battle of their life reminds me that shaving my head is much smaller than anything they're facing."

Since 2003, the Hair Massacure has raised $3,640,000 for the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation in Edmonton and Northern Alberta. This year's event will take place at West Edmonton Mall's Ice Palace. For anyone who is uncertain about adopting a new do, they can also support the cause in a number of ways, from pledging funds to a participant, volunteering or donating directly to the St. Valentine's Day Hair Massacure. More information is available at http://hairmassacure.com/participate. To make a pledge to Dawn Leverenz, visit her page.

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