I wasn't going to do it last year, and I didn't think I would be able to do it this year, either. Like a lot of Americans, I'm still out of a job, still in job search mode. How will I explain to prospective employers why my head is shaved? Who is this crazy bald broad sitting in their office, looking to get hired? (Let's not forget the fact that as I write this, it's the 6th of January and it's about 20 degrees outside. The thought of a bald head sends chills down my spine.) But forget the cold. Let's get back to that whole job search thing. A woman with a bald head can be intimidating to some people, scary to others, but also a great conversation starter. My "chrome dome" may be a good way to give that employer a small peek inside who I am and what I believe and, also very honestly, if I tell him or her that I shaved my head for kids with cancer and he or she holds it against me, do I really want to work for him or her anyway? There's a much, much bigger picture out there, so much bigger than me and what's going on in my life. As bad as it was losing my job, I can't imagine the horror of losing your job, being unable to afford to hold on to your health insurance . . . and then being told that your child has cancer. THAT'S why I'm doing this: because somewhere out there, there's a very sick child and two shattered parents who desperately need a glimmer of hope. "Fear holds you prisoner; hope sets you free", as they said in "The Shawshank Redemption." Without hope, we as individuals have nothing and we as human beings are doomed. So - how much would you spare to "keep hope alive", to help save a child and - in your own small way - save the future of humanity? Okay, maybe I'm pushing it a little with the whole "saving humanity" thing. And I know that right now, money is tight for everyone. I'm not asking you for a budget-busting donation - although that's certainly welcome if you're so inclined! - but whatever you can afford. Five bucks or fifty, it's welcome. And, of course, it's tax-deductible. This year's Team Brent event is the afternoon SATURDAY, MARCH 6th at the Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport, CT. Come by to witness the annual shearing! Thank you - from me, and on behalf of the kids who need help and their parents who are so desperate for a glimmer of hope in the darkness of their lives - for whatever you are able to do. And again, thank you so much for your support. Love, Bette