**Update: After this story was published, Sam Copeland was honored as one of “Virginia Beach’s Best All Around” youth. The award is given to youth, youth groups, adults who work with youth, and businesses and organizations that demonstrate an investment in youth for his work with St. Baldrick’s.*
At first sight, the five newly shorn heads sitting around the neighborhood picnic table raise no concern – perhaps a new class picture is impending or, maybe, as the five boys are laughing and talking under the long overdue beams of the sun, they wanted to prepare for the warmth of spring.
Yet, as Jacob Copeland, his big brother Sam, twin brothers David and Aidan Edwards and Zach Guisto will tell you, these new dos are more meaningful than a yearbook photo or change in season. These haircuts are a public declaration of solidarity and support for children everywhere fighting cancer.
Three weeks ago, the fivesome raised more than $2,000 as part the St. Baldricks Foundation. Participants solicit sponsorships, and, in return for donations, they shave their heads bald. All the money raised benefits childhood cancer research, but, for the boys, participating has a more important message.
“You help kids who have cancer so you can show them bald is beautiful,” David said.
“Even without hair, you’re still the same person,” Sam added.
The boys had heard of programs that allow volunteers to shave their heads and donate their hair to make a wig for those in need. Originally, that was the goal. However, a chance encounter at a local restaurant changed that plan.
The boys ran into a family friend, whose son had battled stomach cancer. Now a survivor, he spent his efforts working for St. Baldricks because, as he put it, instead of helping one child with one wig, participants can help lots of children with research.
The boys were hooked.
Immediately, they set up a website and started looking for sponsors. The donations came pouring in. By the time came to shave their heads, the boys had raised $2,800.
“We did a really good thing because we helped thousands of kids who have cancer,” David said.
Coming back to school – all five boys attend Kempsville Elementary School – classmates were in shock over the new look.
“Everybody that walked in the room, they were like ‘ahhhh’ (mouth gaping open),” Aidan said.
“When I walked in, everyone just froze,” Sam added.
Shock aside, the boys said there are practical advantages to the bald look.
“My mom, she said, ‘I can finally see your eyes,’” Zach said.
And, “you get a nice breeze through your hair,” Jacob added.
Shocking friends aside, the boys understand their work was more than just a cosmetic change; it allowed them to help those who need it. That priority, they say, has been the highlight of this entire experience.
“At the beginning, I was really happy,” Aidan concluded, “and I’m still happy. I like spending time with my friends and doing something good together.”
His friends agree.
“This is one the best things I’ve ever done,” David said.
It is heartwarming to see young people thinking of others and doing something concrete to help. These young men are setting a great example.
Great Job Locks of Love!