Whiz Kid: Student Loses Locks to Raise Money for Cancer

Each Wednesday, Mehlville Patch will be highlighting a young person in the community who is making a positive difference in the lives of others. These kids are doing outstanding academic work, winning an award or exhibiting exemplary qualities. Know great kids? Nominate them by e-mailing sarah.flagg@patch.com. 

Name: Connor VanLoon

Age: 8

School: Bierbaum Elementary School

Accomplishment: On March 5, Connor had his head shaved to benefit the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a non-profit organization that raises money for childhood cancer research.  

Key to Awesomeness: Conner first heard an appeal on the radio for volunteers to have their heads shaved to benefit the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a non-profit organization that raises money for children's cancer research. He thought it would be something fun he could do that would help others and after consulting his parents, they agreed. A family friend who is a beautician volunteered her services for the buzz cut. Rather than going to a central location for the clipping, Connor did a virtual shave on the St. Baldrick’s website. Now, his hair is gone and Connor’s new look raised $135 for cancer research. His classmates were impressed and many wanted to touch his very smooth head.

When Connor is not involved in community service, he is an eager student at Bierbaum Elementary School. His favorite subjects are science and social studies. He is an avid reader of both fiction and non-fiction, and recommends the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series by Jeff Kinney as well as biographies.

Hobbies are also important in Connor’s life. He plays baseball for the Affton Athletic Association, playing outfield and beginning his second year on the team. Video games are another one of his favorite pastimes, as is listening to music.