January, 15, 2013 (Raleigh, N.C.) – Jessica Ekstrom, a senior at NC State, was doing everything she could with her free time to help children stricken with cancer. She delivered toys, visited hospitals, met with children, and one by one made a difference in the lives of many. One day, when she was styling her hair, she realized that she could do more: she could revive the identity that millions of girls have seemingly lost with chemotherapy. She could bring back the femininity that these children have sacrificed to push death off, all while continuing to bring smiles to those whose path she crosses. Not only can she do all of this, but she can do it on a grand scale.
It was from this that inspired Headbands of Hope, a company dedicated to not just raising awareness of childhood cancer, but also to leading the charge in making a difference.
“For every headband purchased, one is given to a girl with cancer and $1 is donated to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation to fund life-saving childhood cancer research.” explained Jessica, founder and president of Headbands of Hope. But there is still work to be done. “Even though it’s fun and fulfilling to bring the girls headbands in the hospitals, I’m constantly reminded that there still isn’t a cure.”
NC State Bookstores is teaming with Headbands of Hope to provide vital routes to communicating Jessica’s message and share the many stories of children who will benefit from a gesture as small as purchasing a headband to add to your own collection. When considering small issues in life, Jessica can’t help but think about the children she has encountered. “It really puts life into perspective” she said. “My problems [cease to be] problems.”
Everyone can make a difference. Headbands can be purchased at NC State Bookstores on campus and at the PNC Center.
###
For more information, please visit www.headbandsofhope.com