Iconic campaign continues to trade hair for cancer research dollars

THUNDER BAY – Greg Stephenson has one special annual spring tradition.

Every year the president of the Thunder Bay Police Association gets a haircut as part of the Canadian Cancer Society’s annual Cops for Cancer campaign.

Stephenson had his date with the clippers on Monday, as his head was shaved at the Balmoral Street police station to announce this year’s fundraising event.

“The Canadian Cancer Society provides a lot of assistance to people and (this event) creates awareness to make sure people are aware these services are available,” Stephenson said.

Cops for Cancer is a long-running event where participants raise money before having their heads shaved in public. The campaign typically raises $30,000 locally.

Ashley Rooney, community fundraising specialist, said the money raised goes towards cancer research and supporting a number of local services.

“It helps show people they’re not alone facing cancer,” she said. “(The police) are a big force in our community. People look up to them so if they’re behind people it won’t be such a big deal.”

This year’s event will be held on May 9 at the Intercity Shopping Centre promotions court beginning at 11 a.m.

Organizers are looking for a significant community response.

“We’re putting a call out to all law enforcement agencies and emergency services personnel to come along and join in,” Stephenson said.

“People have many different reasons for doing it. They dedicate it to somebody they’ve lost or someone who is battling cancer.”