Editor's Note: This article was written by representatives of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District.
Calhoun High School recently hosted its seventh annual “Chop Your Locks for Charity” event to support the childhood cancer research.
More than 250 people either shaved their heads or donated eight or more inches of their hair to be used in wigs for cancer-stricken children. This year’s event raised more than $60,000 for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation and Locks of Love.
“It’s always a great feeling to see all of the students who turn out to support this wonderful cause each year,” said Calhoun High School Principal David Seinfeld. “When the participants come in to class the following day with their heads shaved or hair cut, the entire school looks at them with pride.”
Among the students shaving their heads was Dean Brownworth, a Calhoun High School senior and varsity basketball player who was diagnosed with brain cancer in late 2011. Brownworth has been steadily recovering following a series of treatments, and was able return to the classroom and the basketball court a few months ago.
Calhoun students have rallied around their classmate to make this annual experience one of the most popular and successful events each school year. Brownworth shared his inspirational story and appreciation for his classmates in a live interview with WABC-7 Eyewitness News during the event.
St. Baldrick’s is the world’s largest volunteer-driven fundraising event for childhood cancer research. Worldwide, 175,000 children are diagnosed with cancer each year, yet research to find a cure is significantly underfunded. St. Baldrick’s events are designed to fund lifesaving research to find a cure for childhood cancer.
Thousands of volunteers shave their heads in solidarity for children with cancer and request donations of support from friends and family. At a St. Baldrick’s event, volunteers and donors recognize the importance of giving, and experience camaraderie in a cause greater than themselves.
The high school has raised more than $350,000 for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation since the event’s inception in 2007.
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