Students go bald to support childhood cancer research

On Friday, March 25, students of St. Bernadette School in Westlake are standing up against childhood cancers. St. Baldrick’s Foundation, the largest non-government funder of childhood cancer research grants, will host one of its signature head-shaving events at the school. Many students will shave their heads at Brave the Buzz 5 to raise money for the foundation. 

It can be an emotional event for participants, but it’s also a celebration of and a tribute to everyday heroes. 

Brave the Buzz 5 brings the greater community together to show solidarity with kids fighting cancer. There will be speakers, music and entertainment. Students learn that small acts – such as shaving their head or donating their hair – can have a powerful impact on others. 

Spearheading the event is Mary Sue Anders, a long-time teacher at St. Bernadette School. Miss Anders had a special bond with St. Bernadette School’s own angel, Michael Orbany, who passed away in 2014 from medulloblastoma at the young age of 9. Each time the event is held, Michael is honored and his legacy lives on. 

This spring, Michael would have been graduating from high school. In honor of Michael and all of the heroes who continue to battle childhood cancers, St. Bernadette School intends to raise $60,000. To learn more about the event and to donate, please visit www.stbaldricks.org/events/mypage/11143/2022 or call the school at 440-734-7717.