A group of Mount Carmel Students and faculty members made a bold statement this year by shaving their heads. On March 13 they took part in the annual St. Baldrick’s event, a fundraiser for childhood cancer research. With each haircut, they showed support for children fighting cancer while raising money to help find a cure.

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation is a charity that raises money for childhood cancer research. It started in 2000, and since then, it has skyrocketed into a global movement, raising millions of dollars. The event at MC brings together plenty of students, teachers, and families to make a difference. Some participants choose to shave their heads, while others collect donations to support the cause.

At MC, students and faculty have been participating in this event for many years. The goal is to raise awareness and funds by shaving their heads and/or just collecting donations. Many participants feel a deep connection to the cause, whether it is through personal experiences or just wanting to help others.

“I’ve been involved with St. Baldrick’s since I was in fifth grade,” said Mr. Jack Murphy, a math teacher at MC. “My best friend’s older brother passed away from pediatric brain cancer, so I do this to honor him. It’s a great way to show support and raise awareness.”

Mr. John Stimler, MC’s Director of Mission and Ministry, has been helping with the event for 17 years and raised the most money of any individual in the school as of shave day, just shy of $900. He has seen firsthand how cancer can affect young people. 

“I’ve been to too many funerals of students who passed away from cancer,” he said. “That’s what keeps me involved. Childhood cancer research doesn’t get enough funding, and we need to change that.”

Garrett Mann, a junior, chose to shave his head but not before some trepidation. “At first, I wasn’t sure about it, but then I thought about what kids with cancer go through,” he said. “Losing my hair for a few months is nothing compared to what they deal with.”

Ryder Alderson, a sophomore, raised the most money of any student as of shave day, with almost $700. “It’s really inspiring to see everyone come together,” he said. “Some guys do it for extra credit, but a lot of us do it because we want to help. It’s a great cause.”

Mr. Stimler believes that even those who do not shave their heads can still contribute. “More students are choosing to fundraise instead of shaving,” he said. “That’s just as important because it helps fund the research these kids need.”

The school has raised thousands of dollars for cancer research, thanks to the dedication from the students, faculty and community. 

Mr. Murphy believes  it is very important to show support in any way possible. “Even if students don’t want to shave their heads, they can still help,” he said. “The goal is to bring awareness and raise as much money as we can.”

Mann is a shavee who understands the emotional impact of the event. “It really makes you think about what these kids go through,” he said. “It’s not just about losing hair. It’s about helping kids get better.”

For many at MC, St. Baldrick’s is much more than just an event–it is a tradition of giving back. “This is what we stand for as a school,” Mr. Stimler said. “It’s about standing in solidarity with those who need us.”

Alderson put it all into perspective.  

“It’s just hair, it’ll grow back,” he said. “But for kids with cancer, this could help save their lives. That’s why we do it.”