It wasn't quite the kickoff they had hoped for, but Brayden Ottenbreit's Close Cuts for Cancer's 2011 campaign officially began on April 30. Bill Barsi braved the wind and snow to become the first shave of the year.
Leone Ottenbreit with Close Cuts for Cancer says that the event, now in its fourteenth year, is all about getting people together to raise money for cancer research. Last year, over $65,000 was raised and over 45 heads were parted from their hair. This year's main event will take place on May 28, and there will many small shaves in area schools, including Saltcoats and Bredenbury.
All ages are taking part in this year's event, from a 13 month old getting his first haircut to people much older.
Barsi, who hasn't had a haircut since last year, says that he participates because it's a good cause, and growing his hair all year keeps him warm in the winter.
Since due to the weather the planned pancake breakfast was not able to go ahead, Ottenbreit says that they are currently considering rescheduling. Funds raised from the breakfast go to the local initiatives program.
This year, the program has already donated $1,000 to The Health Foundation's campaign for a hospital conceptual plan, and money raised will go to free stays at the Regina cancer lodge for people in the area travelling to get treatment.
The event is also about honoring those who have been affected by cancer. Ottenbreit notes that on the Close Cuts for Cancer Facebook page people can upload pictures to honor those who have gone through the disease, are currently going through it, or have lost the battle.
"You can't really throw a stone without hitting someone who has been affected by cancer. People come forward for their own reasons and we support those who are going through the disease," Ottenbreit says.
People who want to sign up or learn more can visit: www.braydenscutsforcancer.com/.
