THUNDER BAY - It’s been a long time coming for Mike Valley’s head of hair.
“Six years since the last cut. I was going to shave it last summer but figured I’d give it one more year.”
Valley is one of many people who sat down for a shave outside of the Country Market at the CLE Grounds on Saturday, for the Cops for Cancer charity event.
The event is in its 23rd year, and helps raise money for children with pediatric cancer.
“It’s just hair,” said Valley, who has now donated 12 feet of his own hair over the last 25 years.
“A friend of mine in 1994 had breast cancer, and she had to get on a waiting list to get a wig.”
Valley’s personal connection has translated into a lifelong process of growing, shaving, and donating.
On Saturday, a long ponytail grown over the course of six years was braided, and shaved down to the skull.
“It feels good,” said Valley who held the locks in his hand afterwards. “It helps that it grows like a weed.”
The fundraiser is held in collaboration with the Thunder Bay Police Service. Each year members of the force take part including Cops for Cancer chair Greg Stephenson.
“Everybody’s affected by cancer, everybody wants to give back and some day find a cure,” he said. “We’re a part of the community. It’s one certain way to give back.”
Maria Cabral, regional manager of the Canadian Cancer Society, was pleased with this year’s change of scenery as the event was formerly held at the Intercity mall.
“A lot of people are walking by, learning about the event, coming in and getting a haircut.”
Cabral estimates Cops 4 Cancer will raise over $10,000. People can continue to donate online at cops4cancer.com
“There’s not necessarily a lot done for kids in Thunder Bay with pediatric cancer, so we can help to get them and their parents to travel and seek surgery and whatever they might need.”
