Because 20 is a much nicer number than 19, I’ve decided to sign up for one more shave to benefit the St. Baldrick’s Foundation and their fight against childhood cancers. So many of you have been incredibly generous over the years, and you know how much this cause means to me. While a 20th shave wasn’t a guarantee, I couldn’t pass up the chance to cross two major finish lines.

First, ending at 19 years felt like leaving a job unfinished. Second, after 19 shaves, I am exactly $3,421.14 away from a life-changing milestone: $100,000 raised in total.

This year is special for another reason. The Grand Marshals of the Syracuse St. Patrick’s Day Parade are the organizers of the Kitty Hoynes events I’ve participated in for nearly two decades. They’ve invited past participants to march with them, and returning for a 20th year feels like the best way to honor that invitation.

Most importantly, the battle isn't over—too many kids are still facing their own fights against cancer.

I know many of you gave so deeply last year for what was the "last shave" at Kitty Hoynes, and I am still so grateful for that. This year, my goal is simply to round that 19 to a 20 and raise the $3,422 needed to hit that $100,000 lifetime mark.

Since there is no longer an event at Kitty Hoynes, I’ll be shaving in front of a much tougher crowd this year: the fifth through eighth graders at my school. I can personally guarantee there will be plenty of photos and even more jokes at my expense!

Thank you once again for your years of generosity, dedication, and support. I am truly grateful.

Matt