Hi, hello! My name is Lilia and I'll be shaving my head for childhood cancer research. My first ever college friend at UTA means so much to me because she helped me not be afraid of change and meeting new people. We didn't end up taking any of the same classes, so I would only see her in passing, but just that little bit gave me a pick-me-up. Near the end of my time at UTA, I found out that she was diagnosed with lymphoma, a cancer that affects the immune system. Even though it was difficult news, she still sent me that text with a smiley face because that's just the person she is; optimist. Her cancer is currently inactive and she's doing well in getting back to the swing of things (PTL). But I'm still sad that I took my time there for granted and that there was the possibility of not seeing her again if I never reached out. Starting over at a new university and commuting to campus everyday has also really solidified how important time is to me. I feel like dedicating my time to others is hard-wired in my body and I love so much that that's a part of me. But that's what made transferring here still so difficult; it was abnormal to me to have to take a step back and make myself a priority in order to reorient myself to UT and more change. I really miss helping others and putting them first and after such difficult semesters, I feel like this is a starting point. I'm known as the girl with pretty long hair. Ever since I last chopped off 15 inches in 2015, I haven't cut my hair since. I hope that I can symbolize that no one is fighting a battle on their own. Feeling like an outcast to this school, I know what it feels like to feel like you're not yourself or that you don't belong but I can't pretend like I know what these kids are going through, but I can at least try to understand and hold their hand along the way. Everyone and anyone has their own hardships and obstacles they have to overcome, let's stand together and help these kids overcome the obstacle of their life!

Soo, I'm shaving my head in honor of my friend My-Lien (pictured above) who is such an inspiration and continues to inspire me with her strength and altruism in everything she does. I'm also shaving in honor of my next door neighbor, Jeany who has been there for me since I was little but has been battling lung cancer all while raising four wonderful little boys. I'm also honoring the kids below who have or are fighting a very tough battle as strong warriors. Along with shaving, I'm also raising money for childhood cancer research! Did you know that kids' cancers are different from adult cancers? It's true. And childhood cancer research is extremely underfunded. So I decided to do something about it by raising money for cures.

Now I need your help! Will you make a donation? Every dollar makes a difference for the thousands of infants, children, teens, and young adults fighting childhood cancers.

I've had so many goals in the past year to even keep count, but this one, this one is special and For the Kids! Please help me reach my goal and come out and support the other shavees who are Braving the Shave. Thank you for taking the time to read this and supporting!

xo Lilia