Like many, I have seen family and friends deal with a diagnosis of cancer.
My dad, otherwise known as pappy-pooh, has survived four children, 11 grandchildren and even a mitt-full of great grandchildren, but more importantly he survived three different cancer diagnoses.
Today at the ripe and not-so-old age of 83, pappy-pooh is still puttering around the house, I suspect just trying to stay out of my mom’s way!
Then there is my dear friend Sue.
A friend of more than 30 years, Sue is about to celebrate the first year anniversary of a mastectomy. I was there when she woke up after the operation, apprehensive as to how she would be feeling, how she would react and yes, how I was going to react.
I will always be grateful to her for making it easy for me to be there for her.
More recently, a colleague at Black Press also underwent surgery for cancer. It brought an unsettling quiet to the front office that is usually abuzz with laughter. Thus far the news is all positive and I’m keeping my fingers crossed the news continues to be positive for years to come.
Unfortunately, these are just some of the people I know who have been touched by the big C.
Recent statistics from the BC Cancer Agency show estimate 9,587 British Columbians will die as a result of cancer of one form or another in 2012. In the area covered by Northern Health, cancer will claim the lives of an estimated 595 people.
So, it is with these thoughts that I have decided to shave my head as part of the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay for Life fundraising and with that put out my hat and ask for your support in the form of a donation.
For some that know me, the thought of seeing me with a bald head may draw a smile, but the majority will say it would be an improvement, albeit a minor improvement.
I prefer to think I’m just going to be a different kind of handsome! I am hoping to raise $2,000 by the end of April when I will have my head shaved.
A pledge form is availble at The Interior News office on Broadway Ave.
Whether you know me or not, are moved or unmoved by the thought of me walking around Smithers with a bald head, I do hope you will support me in my endeavor to raise funds for this year’s Relay For Life which begins May 26 at 1 p.m. in Chandler Park.
- Percy N. Hébert/Interior News