Steven Hill
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It is never easy on a parent when one of their children becomes ill.
Local mom Cindy Turner-Gulycz knows that all too well. Her son was diagnosed with leukemia a few years ago, but instead of buckling under the strain of the challenge, Turner-Gulycz decided to help other parents and children in similar situations, by helping to bring the annual Balding for Dollars fundraiser for B.C. Children's Hospital to Squamish.
This year's event runs April 1 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Squamish Station.
"I started it in 2000, which was when my son finished his treatment," she said. "I wanted to help other kids and families going through the same thing."
Balding for Dollars is a fundraising event aimed at raising money for family support programs, research, educational materials and medical supplies for the Cancer Ward and Outpatient Clinic at B.C.'s Children's Hospital.
To date, about $1.2 million has been raised through the annual event.
Squamish usually raises quite a substantial amount of money every year, according to Turner-Gulycz.
"We average between $25,000 to $27,000 every year," she said. "However, our best year was $45,000."Everyone is welcome to participate.
"All you have to do is pick up a pledge form at Mountain FM, The Chief or the IGA and start collecting money," she said.Once participants have collected pledges, they report to Squamish Station on April 1 between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., where volunteers will shave their heads.
Head shaving can also take place independently at home, school or work during the same time.
For more information call 604-892-3142 or visit www.baldingfordollars. com.
