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When I first thought to shave my head I was excited to raise awareness, raise some money, and inspire some of my friends and family. I didn’t expect to make connections with people I have never met and have such a huge impact on my life.
Shortly after publishing my first post The Secret Is Out, I discovered that both the venue I will be shaving my head at and my Team Go Big, Go Bald were doing this in honor of a little boy named Zachary. I had never met Zach and was struck by the joy and innocence in his face. I want you all to know Zachary not for the disease he was tragically taken by, but as the little boy that stole the hearts of everyone that was lucky enough to meet him.
Zachary was an energetic and inquisitive little boy. He loved Buzz Lightyear, Scooby Doo, and watching the New York Jets with his Dad, but his favorite thing was to spend time with and cuddle Mom. He loved playing with his big sister Danielle and dreamed of one day swimming with the dolphins.
Zach was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma in May of 1999 at 1 year old. No matter how sick he was he always had that wonderful smile. When he began chemo and losing his hair his parents immediately took him out for a shave with Dad. The only thing he knew was that he had a haircut like his Daddy.
10 years ago Zach passed away while sleeping in his mother’s arms. Speaking with Zachary’s parents and reading his story has touched my life in more ways that I ever thought possible. If I ever had any doubts about doing this they all flew out the window when I realized the comfort Zach’s parents gave him when his Daddy had a haircut just like him.
Zach’s family continues to celebrate his life and memory. Each year they participate in the head shaving event and have also created a scholarship for local high school athletes in Zach’s name. I am honored to be a part of this event with them.
I am blown away by the generosity my friends, family, and complete strangers have shown by donating on my page. It has motivated and inspired me even more to raise money to help fund research that will help other children who have been diagnosed with such an awful disease.
Please consider the following options for being involved:
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