Cancer does not discriminate based on the seasons.

As Jack Forrey says, “Most people don’t understand how cold our heads get when we lose our hair.”

AVHS students may recall a few weeks ago principal Steve Degenaar announcing the development of a new donation drive aiming to deliver hats of any size, shape, and color to children battling cancer.

The hat drive was fueled by AVHS senior Jack Forrey’s desire to make New Year’s a little brighter for those undergoing treatment at the Minneapolis Children’s Hospital.

“I understand how lonely it can be to grow up with a life-threatening disease. That’s kind of where the hat donation idea comes from; a hat isn’t really much to give, but it’s nice knowing someone’s thinking of you and supporting you when you’re going through a tough time, and hopefully it’ll be enough to make them smile.”

Forrey, who is currently battling cancer for the second time in his life, gets hope from the faces of the children.

“It’s inspiring,” said Forrey. “Being around all these kids going through this life-changing disease. Understanding what they go through and being able to witness them smile in spite of it all… It gives me the strength to keep going.”

Forrey’s battle with cancer began at an age when, for most of us, the biggest problem was forgetting to bring a blanket for nap time.

“I was first diagnosed with leukemia when I was six, in kindergarten,” said Forrey. “Being one of the older ones here [at Children’s Hospital], it’s hard to not be protective over them since I know what they’re going through. It’s probably kinda weird, but I just want to hug ‘em all and take care of them and beat this disease for them.”

Many in AVHS express support for Jack’s efforts, and some may find themselves more familiar with the effects of cancer than you’d think.

“I think it’s a super sweet idea,” said AVHS senior Annika Wielenga, “and I hope it will help the kids feel a little better through this horrible disease.”

Wielenga, whose mother was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer in September 2013, knows firsthand the effects that cancer has not only on the patient, but on those that surround them.

“It was really hard on me watching her not be the same person I grew up with, and hard on my dad because he had to assume the responsibilities for both parents,” said Wielenga. “She got really sick from the chemo and stopped doing her regular routine and started sleeping a lot.”

As of Monday, December 21 the hat drive has received over 180 donations, which will make their way to Children’s Hospital in early January. Donations can be made at a table inside the AVHS main office. The hat drive runs through Wednesday, December 23.

As Forrey says, “We can’t save them all, but we can love them all, and that’s the point.”

NOTE:  If you would like to support Jack in his battle against cancer, please make sure to check out his gofundme page on the following link: