This is my 9th year shaving my head with the St. Baldrick's Organization. Eight years I've grown my hair out, driving my mom crazy by the way, to only have it completely shaven off during the Church Hill Irish Festival. This organization is especially near to my heart because of their support of raising money in support of finding a cure for childhood cancer. To date I have raised close to $20,000. Thank you to those who continue to support me and those children suffering through the effects of cancer.

Many of you are aware that I am a cancer survivor. I was diagnosed with Leukemia when I was 4 1/2. My treatment lasted nearly four years. I'm thankful I don't remember a lot of the treatment, but I do remember some. I remember the painful shots in my thighs; the spinal taps that hurt my back for days; the terrible tasting medicine that my mom had to give me in the middle of the night; and the monthly doses of steroids that turned my face a horrible shade of red and made me cry a lot.

I was fortunate though to have organizations like St. Baldrick's, LLS, and Special Love to help me and my family through the rough times. My parents taught me that I didn't have to fight cancer alone. I had my family, the doctors and nurses, and GOD. My family has taught me to give back to the community in which they gave to me.

Participating in this awesome program is one way I give back but I need your help. My hair is long for a purpose and that is to raise money. Please consider donating to this awesome organization so that one day kids like me won't have to endure the painful memories I had growing up.

Thank you,

Knight of the Bald Table Member!

Mark Isabelle