Beginning Sunday, November 1, 18 generous Reading Hospital team members pledged participation in the “No Shave November” Contest in support of McGlinn Cancer Institute. The month-long event, hosted by Reading Hospital Foundation, will raise funds for men’s educational programs and the Patient Assistance Fund at McGlinn Cancer Institute to show support for the many patients undergoing cancer treatment and experiencing hair loss. At the end of the month, prizes will be awarded for best beard, best mustache, and the most money raised.
To participate in the event, individuals were asked to pledge $100 and are encouraged to seek additional support from their family and friends. There will also be prizes awarded to participants and donors each week throughout the contest. To date, the group has raised more than $6,300.
“Though we continue to face the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, I am relieved that there are some things returning to ‘normal,’” said William M. Jennings, Reading Hospital President and CEO. “Last year we raised more than $14,000 in support of the McGlinn Cancer Institute patients and their families. We will continue to stand with, and support, these individuals as they courageously fight cancer.”
Due to the personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic and based on the recommendation from the Reading Hospital Infection Prevention and Employee Health team, clinical staff are strongly discouraged from growing facial hair at this time.
Katherine Thornton, President, Reading Hospital Foundation said, “Our team members are always looking for opportunities to support our patients. Funds raised from ‘No Shave November’ will directly impact the members of our community.”
Individuals interested in supporting participants and McGlinn Cancer Institute through No Shave November can visit events.towerhealth.org/make-a-gift. Under "Gift Purpose," please select: No Shave November Contest. Then check the box next to "This gift is a tribute" and enter the name of the individual you are supporting.
About Reading Hospital
Reading Hospital is the flagship, Magnet Recognized, acute care hospital of Tower Health. Located in West Reading, Pa., Reading Hospital is a 714-bed hospital that is home to many top-tier specialty care centers, including Reading HealthPlex, Tower Health Transplant Institute, McGlinn Cancer Institute, Miller Regional Heart Center, Emergency Department, Level I Trauma Center and Beginnings Maternity Center, which houses the region's only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). With more than 1,000 physicians and providers across 49 locations, Reading Hospital has been recognized for its quality outcomes and clinical expertise across services lines. It is listed as one of America's 100 Best Hospitals for four consecutive years and received a 5-Star Rating from CMS two years in a row. For more information, visit towerhealth.org.