New looks for cancer research at Close Cuts

Every year, hair disappears en masse at the Parkland Mall. That hair goes away for a good cause, raising money for cancer research through the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, as well as raising money for local initiatives that help Yorkton cancer patients. This year, the event raised $37,640.18 for the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, as well as $6,802.70 for the local initiatives fund.

As an example of the 31 participants parting ways with their hair, take a look at the newly bald Aaron Kienle. The Yorkton City Councillor parted ways with his flowing mane on Saturday, May 26. The new look means a new wig for someone with cancer, and it means a significant amount of money raised for Close Cuts.

The Kienle family believes in donating hair. Daughter Aaliyah donated some of her hair, which inspired her brother Derek and her father to cut their flowing locks for Close Cuts. Derek’s cut was at Columbia School a week ago.

“It has been year where we’re working with different organizations, raising money and donating hair for cancer.”

Kienle grew out his hair with his son as well. He went with long locks in solidarity with Derek, who was tired of being called a girl with his own long hair. Now they have short hair together.

The Kienle family did more than just donate hair. Between father and son they raised just under $16,000 for Close Cuts for Cancer. Kienle would like to thank the business community, friends and supporters for supporting him an his son in their efforts to raise money for the charity.

Going from long hair to none is a big change for Kienle.

“I actually can feel cold air already. It’s kind of interesting, it has been a while since I felt that sensation.”

Shedding his hair does have some perks for the city councillor.

“I’ve got a couple of weeks where I can slither around town and nobody will know I’m the guy they’ve got to complain to.”

Kienle’s not the only one to get a haircut on Saturday. Greg Ottenbreit made his return to the hot seat after having to observe the 2017 event from the ICU after his own cancer surgery. Now officially in remission, Ottenbreit celebrated by growing out a mullet that would look at home in the Patrick Swayze movie Road House.

“The mullet was my natural habitat in the ‘80s but I’m much happier to be in my natural habitat now that I’m in my 50s.”

Ottenbreit would like to thank everyone who supports the event, and have allowed them to raise money for cancer over the past 21 years.

“This community and the people who support this cause have always been very generous and it’s very heartwarming to see how generous they are this year.”