YORKTON — The 28th annual Brayden Ottenbreit Close Cuts for Cancer head-shaving event at Parkland Mall on June 7 was a success, raising $6,645 for cancer research and local initiatives.
Despite only four registered participants, a handful of walk-ups contributed to the effort, with spirits high throughout the day.
The Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan will receive $2,695 to support cancer research in the province, while The Health Foundation will receive $3,950 to expand the Community Oncology Program at Yorkton Regional Health Centre. An additional $300 was designated for palliative care through the Local Cancer Initiatives Program.
Donations included $3,000 from Jerry Witherspoon, raised through proceeds from the J-Mack Demo Derby at last year’s Yorkton Exhibition, along with a $500 contribution from Yorkton firefighters and $450 designated by participants.
Organizers expressed gratitude to all supporters and participants and said they are looking forward to next year’s event, with potential changes on the horizon.
Since its inception in 1998, Close Cuts has raised more than $1.5 million for cancer research and community initiatives.
"Our hope is that one day, if a cure is not to be found, cancer will become a disease that people can live with, rather than fear dying from," organizers said.
