Update:I would like to thank everyone who has been donating money. It really touches my heart that I have so FAR gone past my goal of $350 online and through direct donations. In fact, I have raised over $1000, more than I ever imagined. God bless! My name is Christine, I am 17 years old, and a junior in highschool. When I first heard about the St. Baldrick's Foundation, I immediately brushed it off my shoulder, telling everyone sitting around me, "Wow, what kind of girl would do something that extreme?" It turns out that I am just that kind of girl. You see, my best friend Nikki's father was diagnosed with cancer a few years ago and I have watched his frequent struggles as the years have gone by. In October of 2006, he had his first major surgery in Ohio. Doctors told his family members to have little hope of a full recovery since the surgery was to remove the cancer that had practically engulfed all his internal organs. I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason. I'm sure, somewhere out there is a reason that my best friend's dad, my other father figure, was put through this struggle. I have yet to find it, but all I do know is that when he did fully recover, doctors considered it a miracle. I believe he did this through the love and support of his wife, daughter, and friends. Although bouncing back after the surgery and chemotherapy was hard for him, he eventually went back to work about 8 months later. All seemed perfect. It was around November of 2007 when my best friend told me that once again a surgery was needed on her father, this time in Chicago. It was to remove a lot of scar tissue that had formed from the last surgery. I watched his health decline rapidly as he was admitted into the hospital once again in January. The operation would be risky because of his health and weak body. Although, I trust that his even stronger mind and heart will prevail. Since then, the surgery has come and go, and he will be in the hospital in Chicago for probably a month since his condition was so bad to begin with. My family has helped out in all the ways we can and I pray everynight for his suffering to cease. It just feels like it will never stop. I know this is a website in honor of children with cancer. I see it as this: many people consider kids with cancer as their heros because they are strong, beautiful people who have touched our lives. Well, my best friend's father is my personal hero for all those same reasons.. So cutting my hair off is dedicated in honor of him. Thanks for all you have shown me in life.