Why would anyone leave the house with wild and outrageous hair? To raise money to purchase items for children with cancer, such as a video game cart, of course!
Eight years ago, when a little girl named Meghan was three-years-old, she was diagnosed with a rare cancer that affects the kidneys, called Wilms’ tumor. To support Meghan, her uncle, Joe Bartell of Boston, MA, decided to organize an event to raise awareness for Wilms’ tumor. Since beating the cancer six years ago and still cancer free Meghan is doing well and just recently finished her first season playing softball with her team.
The Wiggos 4 Kiddos team was formed six years ago after Meghan was declared cancer free, to continue the fundraising efforts to raise awareness and money for other children fighting cancer. The team is comprised Bob Varnum, Jack McCarthy, Heather Croke, Joe Bartell and Grant LeSueur all who volunteer their time, energy and resources.
While their cause is serious, their fundraising efforts are humorous and entertaining, and you’re sure to have a great time at their events.
Especially because you’ll encounter hundreds of kids and adults donning colorful and fun wigs, dressing in colorful Mexican attire and sombreros and dancing to mariachi bands!
Their biggest event, Wigo de Mayo (think Cinco de Mayo celebration), has enabled them to raise thousands for the benefit of children and for Boston Children’s Hospital. Last year, their efforts collected $7,300, a portion of which was used for a Kidzpace Xbox 360 game system on a bedside mobile cart that they graciously donated to Boston Children’s Hospital.
The game has been such a hit; Wiggos 4 Kiddos planned the 6th Annual Wigo de Mayo Fiesta Fundraiser event this past May to raise money for another! Their efforts and hard work enable patients and their families to take a little time to relax and have some fun while in the hospital.
The Wiggos 4 Kiddos team (L-R): Bob Varnum, Jack McCarthy, Heather Croke, Joe Bartell and Grant LeSueur
This year, they also started Duckos 4 Kiddos, a program that allows people to sponsor and purchase a stuffed plush Chemo Duck for a “Kiddo.” As they grow, Wiggos 4 Kiddos plans to expand their efforts by organizing more events around the country, including New York and Portland, Oregon.
Stories like Meghan’s and the Wiggos 4 Kiddos Team warm our hearts. We want to thank them for all their hard work.
If you’re interested in donating or learning more about Wiggos, please write to:
Email: wiggos4kiddos@gmail.com
Or
“Wiggos 4 Kiddos”
73 Ratchford Street
Quincy, MA 02169
Check them out on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Wiggos4Kiddos.
