By GINNY RAUE
WEST MILFORD — On Sunday, May 19, the Macopin Firehouse will once again be the scene of some close shaves. Shaved heads, that is. That's because the third annual St. Baldrick’s Event will be taking place.
Those who choose to give up their flowing locks, or in some cases what’s left of them, will do so in the interest of obtaining pledges to support childhood cancer research.
The St. Baldrick’s Foundation is responsible for funding more childhood cancer research than any other organization except for the United States government. Considering that a child is diagnosed with cancer every three minutes and that 80 percent of childhood cancer has already spread by the time a diagnosis is made, the situation is critical and the money raised by these events is crucial to keep the research going.
According to West Milford Police Officer Robert Kulawiak, who co-chairs the event with David LeMay representing West Milford Volunteer Fire Co. #4, the hope is to top the $26,000 raised in 2012. Area residents have signed up as well as police, first aid and fire company personnel.
“I think everybody needs to do something, to contribute to some organization to make the world a better place," said Kulawiak. "With St. Baldrick’s, we are getting bald and standing in solidarity with children with cancer. We’ll keep doing it until there’s a cure. You don’t have to shave. Just show up and enjoy the afternoon and perhaps make a donation.”
Kulawiak stressed that should you decide to volunteer, you are going to be shaved, not trimmed or shaped, but buzzed. Thanks to the volunteer barbers, there will hopefully be lots of bald and beautiful men and women around West Milford soon.
Visit the St. Baldrick’s Web site at www.stbaldricks.org to sign up or make a donation. Call Kulawiak at the police department non-emergency number, 973-728-2800, or LeMay at 973-728-1797 for further information.