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The kindest cuts of all (8 photos)

“It’s hard find a person whose life hasn’t been affected by cancer in one way or another," said Will Stephenson (shown). “It’s a cause that continues to affect us all.

“It’s hard find a person whose life hasn’t been affected by cancer in one way or another," said Will Stephenson (shown). “It’s a cause that continues to affect us all.”

Stephenson, now 24 years-old, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at the young age of 11.

“It was a long time ago, but I remember having to travel to Toronto for treatments,” said Stephenson. “I was lucky to have family with me who acted as my support system as I went through the treatments and eventually received a bone marrow transplant.”

“Support systems are important for people, especially people battling this disease,” continued Stephenson. “Several years ago, I started working closer with Childhood Cancer Canada as a mentor as a way of giving back to an organization that gave me so much.”

Stephenson is also an active mentor on Teen Connector, an online forum presented by Childhood Cancer Canada designed to connect teens in treatment with young childhood cancer survivors from across the nation.

“Last year, after being awarded a scholarship by Childhood Cancer Canada, I was asked if I would volunteer for them further by organizing a St. Baldrick's event in my home town.”

Stephenson, a grad student at Wilfrid Laurier University, along with many other friends, family members and local organizers, came together as a team to present Sault Ste. Marie’s first St. Baldrick’s event this past Sunday at Arturo Ristorante on Queen St.

At St. Baldrick's events, people collect money with the promise of shaving their heads.

St. Baldrick's is a volunteer driven charity committed to funding the most promising research to find cures for childhood cancers and give survivors long and healthy lives.

St. Baldrick's is a partner with Childhood Cancer Canada.

“The support we’ve received has been phenomenal,” said Stephenson. “I’ve seen family, friends, and local businesses donate so much time and effort to this worthy fundraiser.”

This sold-out dinner provided onsite grooming of several local individuals all who raised funds for Childhood Cancer Canada and in support the continued efforts of cancer research.

Learn more about Childhood Cancer Canada, St. Baldrick’s, and donate to the local Sault Ste. Marie team by visiting here.

 


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