Organisers of Hannah’s Heroes have announced they will not be holding the annual ‘Big Shave’ event in support of St. Baldrick’s Foundation.
“This year, we are embarking on a slightly different path. While we will not be holding our traditional Big Shave event this month, our commitment to supporting this crucial cause remains as strong as ever,” the organisers announced in an email on Monday.
Every September since 2013, as part of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, supporters have turned out for Hannah’s Heroes Big Shave at Cricket Square, to have their heads shaved or support those doing the deed, to raise money to fight childhood cancer.
Over the last decade, the event has raised more than $3 million for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, the largest private funder of childhood cancer research.
“As the biggest fundraiser, [the Big Shave] takes months of planning and effort to pull off and we just aren’t resourced for it this year. It isn’t the end, and I hope we will be back next year,” Nikki Callender, lead volunteer for Hannah’s Heroes, told the Cayman Compass.
In the email, the Hannah’s Heroes team said that while there will be no Big Shave this year, “we’re turning our focus to the heart and soul of our success – our dedicated supporters: school shave teams, corporate teams, and individual fundraisers”.
“This year, we believe that by empowering each of you to lead your own fundraising efforts, we can reach even greater heights. Whether it’s organising a school event, rallying your colleagues, or sitting personal fundraising goals, your efforts will be pivotal in sustaining the momentum we’ve built together,” the organisers said.
The Big Shave was first created in 2013 in honour of Hannah Meeson, the daughter of Cayman residents Gaylene and Nigel Meeson, who was battling brain cancer.
A small group of parents of children with cancer came together that first year with a mission to raise awareness and funds for research, and this has become an important annual event for St. Baldrick’s, the largest non-government funder of childhood cancer research in the US.
The Hannah’s Heroes team, in the email, urged people to create new ways to fundraise in the absence of The Big Shave.
“We understand this chance might feel different, but it opens new opportunities for creativity and community involvement … We are here to support you every step of the way. Our team will provide resources, ideas, and any assistance you might need to ensure your fundraising efforts are successful and enjoyable.”
Callender confirmed that Cayman International School and Cayman Prep and High School will be hosting their own fundraising efforts, on 25 Sept. and 11 Oct., respectively, and may also include dress down days, bake sales and a mini big shave.
To get involved this year, visit the St. Baldrick’s website for more information.
Related Videos
