Less hair, more love

East Rockaway woman's friends and neighbors shave, cut hair to support a friend

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Auxiliary Deputy Inspector Diane LauKaitis, her husband, Officer Don LauKaitis, East Rockaway Fire Department Chief Steve Torborg and about a dozen of their friends shaved their heads in support of a friend who is going through chemo treatments. LauKaitis said that people’s reactions were priceless when she told them of her plan. “I didn’t know I was known for the amount of hair on my head!” she said, “but I want to do this for my friend.”

This fundraiser raised money for a close friend Toni Wilson, who has always been very involved in the East Rockaway community. Wilson, 49, married with two children, has been diagnosed with ovarian, liver and colon cancer, said LauKaitis, and is currently undergoing very intense chemotherapy treatments that have caused her to lose all her hair. “The monies raised will go towards her wig and ongoing medical expenses,” said LauKaitis. The hairdresser was Paula Ventura of William Matt Salon in Carle Place.

“It was fanstastic!” LauKaitis said of the event held at her home. “About 13 of us shaved our heads, and another five or six got a trim. There was such positive energy in that room. I want to thank everyone for their support.” Wilson had a doctor’s appointment on Tuesday to seek what treatments are available. If you weren’t able to attend, but still want to make pledge, mail checks for Toni W. made payable to: Diane LauKaitis, 70 Clinton Avenue Lynbrook, NY 11563