Friends,

Twenty-one years ago, I shaved my head for the first time to raise money for the St. Baldrick's Foundation after our eight-year-old son, Joey, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a bone cancer. Many of you supported that first fundraiser and the twenty annual shavings that followed, helping advance children's cancer research through donations inspired by my newly bald head.

Thankfully, Joey beat cancer. Today he's approaching 30 and living in Austin. He and his twin brother, Robbie, are the reason I'm back in the barber chair this year.

I'll admit that I nearly skipped the 2026 shave altogether. I passed on the spring event because nobody wanted a bald father of the groom at Robbie's wedding in April. But then the twins told me they were planning their own St. Baldrick's event in Austin to celebrate their 30th birthday. So I booked a flight, and I'll be shaving alongside them.

There's something really meaningful about seeing the next generation embrace this cause. I've been involved with St. Baldrick's for more than two decades, first as a shavee/dad. - with Joey as the first honored kid and both of us as the first poster boys - and later as board chair. During that time, one thing hasn't changed: the need for childhood cancer research remains as urgent as ever.

Seeing Joey and Robbie take the lead on their own event gives me hope. It's a reminder that this mission will continue, helping fund the research that gives more children diagnosed with cancer the chance to reach milestones like their 30th birthday.  During Joey’s treatment, and in years working with St Baldrick’s, we’ve known many children who were not so fortunate. 

So once again, I'm asking for your support. If you're able, please consider making a donation to childhood cancer research. This year, that request comes with an extra measure of gratitude and optimism as I watch this commitment pass to the next generation.

You can donate here: StBaldricks.org/participants/chuckchamness

Until a cure,

Chuck