(The Beacon)
By Alex Kraus, Guest Commentary -- The Beacon
A child's life is probably the most precious thing in the world. That is why we are doing our part to help out. You might see Mayor Sam Adams or Timber Joey with some new haircuts in the next few weeks, but you will also see your Portland Pilots men's soccer player walking around with buzz cuts during finals.
Why, you ask? For St. Baldrick's of course! For the third year in a row, we are helping raise money to fund children's cancer research through the St. Baldrick's foundation. Over the last few months, we have been accepting donations and our efforts will culminate in May, when we shave our heads in solidarity with the children who have lost their hair during their various treatments.
We raised over $14,000 over the last few years and hope to raise another $7,000 this year, but the impact of our efforts was not tangible until we met two little individuals named Ramsey and Bransen. During our head shaving last year, two 4-year olds came to school to hang out with us. To see them smile and have fun was incredibly awe-inspiring given everything they go through.
Many of us worry about finals coming up, what we are going to do over the summer, what kind of job we can find, or maybe if the Blazers are going to win the NBA title, but all of that pales in comparison to these kids' struggles. In the U.S., more children die from cancer every year than any other disease, so there are individuals out there who may not even make it to college like us.
It is amazing what communities can do. You students, professors and staff are incredible in your support of us on those Friday nights and Sunday afternoons at Merlo Field. I implore you to help us again, but instead of beating our WCC foes, we need to beat children's cancer.
Log on to www.stbaldricks.org, search for the University of Portland men's soccer team in the search bar and make a donation. Or go the front desk of the athletic office and drop off a donation there. Even if you don't have much to give, every little bit adds up. Just think, making a sacrifice of $5 may not get that cup of Starbucks one morning, but it will help to save a child's life and it certainly won't be bad for your karma.
Alex Kraus is a UP alumnus from the class of 2010.
(Photo taken by Steve Gibbons)
