Why did I decide to shave?

Children with cancer demonstrate incredible bravery in the wake of their diagnosis. They allow multiple care providers into their lives, expose their bodies to a plethora of medications, and are forced with adjusting to a life dictated by a condition outside of their control. I have often found one of the most worrisome aspects of a new diagnosis to be the potential for hair loss with chemotherapy; how will this physical manifestation of disease impact a child's emotional state and acceptance of their diagnosis? I have decided to shave as a show of support for these remarkable children and to remind them that they are not alone. 

Why do I care about childhood cancer?

Pediatric cancer treatment and survivorship has improved significantly since the early 1900s due to collaborative efforts in cancer research and increases in funding and awareness. It still, however, remains the leading cause of childhood death by disease in the United States and is a listed priority for childhood health by the World Health Organization. As a pediatrician and family member of a cancer survivor, I am aware of the impact a cancer diagnosis has on an individual and their family. All children deserve a childhood free of disease.