Members of the William Floyd community gathered recently to support childhood cancer research through the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. The event, "Brave the Shave," took place at William Floyd Elementary School for the second consecutive year. Administrators, faculty, staff, and students volunteered to have their heads shaved to raise funds for St. Baldrick’s.
The William Floyd High School Barbering Academy, led by Ms. Cara Cliffe, was responsible for shaving and dyeing hair, while Ms. Brittany Antici's junior cosmetology class handled hair extensions and braids. Elementary school students participated by dyeing their hair green or adding green ribbons as a show of solidarity.
Participants included members from the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department such as Sheriff Errol Toulon Jr., who had a shamrock painted on his head in support of the cause. Sheriff Toulon also acknowledged Rayna, a faculty member's daughter battling pediatric cancer, with his monthly Community Leadership Award.
Rayna shared her story during the event to educate attendees about childhood cancer and express gratitude for their support. Her family also joined in the head-shaving activities. Dr. Rina Meyer from Stony Brook Medicine’s Cancer Center provided expert insights into pediatric oncology.
The combined efforts of volunteers and community members resulted in nearly $2,000 raised through hair shaving, t-shirt sales, and donations for St. Baldrick’s Foundation this year.
Thanks were extended to Dr. Keith Fasciana, principal of William Floyd Elementary School; the CTE Barbering and Cosmetology Academies; and all contributors who made this fundraising event successful.