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Abbotsford cancer survivor going bald for the cause

An Abbotsford woman is inviting others to join her in going bald April 30 at Mill Lake Park to raise money for BC Children’s Hospital (BCCH).
7370abbotsfordMelissaJeffries
Melissa Jeffries

An Abbotsford woman is inviting others to join her in going bald April 30 at Mill Lake Park to raise money for BC Children’s Hospital (BCCH).

Melissa Jeffries, 20, is participating in Balding for Dollars, an event held to raise awareness and funds to support the oncology, hematology and bone marrow transplant programs at BCCH.

Programs supported include family support and outreach, Teen Adventures, the Sibling Club, Wigs for Kids and more.

Balding for Dollars events are held by individuals and groups throughout the year, with the main annual event taking place May 7 at BCCH.

Jeffries has shaved her head for the cause four previous times. She had kidney cancer when she was six years old and spent two and a half years in and out of the hospital for treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation and several surgeries.

She has been in remission since 1999, but goes back to BCCH once a year for tests.

“Many people know about cancer, but childhood cancer needs more awareness,” Jeffries said of one of the reasons she participates.

The event at Mill Lake Park (on Emerson Street) begins at 1 p.m. near the water park. For more information about Jeffries’ cause or to make a pledge, visit her Facebook page “BC Children’s Hospital – Balding for Dollars” or email her at Melissa.Jeffries34@gmail.com.

General information about the fundraiser can be found at baldingfordollars.com.