Jack Skowronnek grew up a reader, but in 2009, a trip to his school library changed his life and inspired a community movement.
At ten years old, Jack read Drum Girls and Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonneblick, in which a middle school boy shaves his head to show solidarity to his leukemia-battling little brother. Jack was inspired to shave his own head, in the same sign of solidarity, and Jack’s Chattanoggins was born.
More children are lost every year to childhood cancer than any other disease, and Jack’s Chattanoggins is an opportunity to raise awareness, solidarity, and financial support to children battling cancer. By teaming up with the Children’s Hospital Foundation, Jack’s Chattanoggins gives participants the opportunity to fund local programs and show solidarity for kids who lose their hair during cancer treatments.
Each “shavee” will have received donations in their name from friends and family. Traditionally Jack’s head would also be shaved at Chattanoggins, but this year, the honor will instead go to his younger sister, Faith, inspiring a movement of her own: this year, 70 percent of all shavees are women.
Jack’s Chattanoggins has been an incredible success, raising over $150,000 to date. This year, it’s expected that another $40,000+ will be raised and donated to the Children’s Hospital Foundation at Erlanger.
Whether you want to shave your head in front of a crowd or pay to see somebody else do it, head over to jackshaves.org. General donations can also be made. Come show your solidarity, both to the shavees and the kids they’re shaving for.