I'm shaving my head to raise money for childhood cancer research! Did you know that kids' cancers are different from adult cancers? It's true. And childhood cancer research is extremely underfunded.
I was inspired by my 2 amazing nieces who braved the shave in 2014 for St. Baldrick's. I know a lot of people will say 'what does shaving your head have to do with helping fund childhood cancer research?' And honestly, the answer is nothing...it's not about me shaving my head, it's about the research. You seeing me with a shaved head is just a bonus!
I am doing this in honor of my beautiful friend's daughter, Emma Wetherbee. She was diagnosed December 6, 2007 at the young age of 4, with Bilateral Retinoblastoma. As a result of the cancer, Emma lost one of her eyes.
Emma's mother, Amanda is my assistant, co-worker & honestly, one of my very best friends. I haven't had the pleasure of meeting Emma in person yet because they live 3 hours from me. But I have seen pictures of her beautiful face & am inspired by her will & determination. She does have an amazing influence in her parents who teach her about giving back & about reaching for the stars when it comes to what she wants out of life.
Emma has been cancer free since July 16, 2009! She is one of the smartest kids I know! She's talented, she does VERY well in school & is ALREADY researching colleges at the young age of 11!!
So, Emma, this isn't for me, it isn't for a shaved head, it's for YOU and the battle YOU won & for the inspiration that you are to people you've never even met! When I grow up, I hope I can be half the person you already are!!