So here we are again! St. Baldrick's is right around the corner! Last year was my first time to participate in the event and I am thrilled to be able to do so again. For this year, I've decided to actively put together a team - Shave Me Bad. So why did I shave my head last year? 2010 was a rebuilding year for me. I was constantly plagued by the desire to better myself whether it was on a personal level with family and relationships or on a professional level with my path towards dentistry. I also learned a lot about myself. I began to focus on things that meant something to me. Learning of the premise of the event immediately piqued my interest. Rather than simply raising money, shaving my head would serve as a powerful gesture of solidarity. Knowing of a few family members and friends who have been affected by cancer made the decision that much easier. Besides raising money for research, I wanted to show anyone who cared that it didn't matter how goofy I thought I would look. Everyone looks odd with any radically different hairstyle. My image was not my concern. I can't begin to imagine how intimidating it must be for a child to undergo treatment. If there's something I can do on the most basic of levels to lessen any avenue or worry - I'm there. This volunteer-driven charity funds more in childhood cancer research grants than any organization except the U.S. government.

Your gift will give hope to infants, children, teens and young adults fighting childhood cancers. So when I ask for your support, I'm really asking you to support these kids. Thank you! Click "Make a donation" to give online, or donate by phone or mail. Read more about me and my cause at my website: http://www.darynlu.com/2011/02/st-baldricks-2011.html