It started simply because I forgot to take my razor on a trip to a desert oasis. But with November around the corner, I thought, there is a good excuse to continue.
And a good cause. No Shave November raises money and awareness about cancer. Particularly directed to men, it provides an answer to the obvious question:
Why are you doing that to your face?
The American Cancer Society recommends all men at age 50 speak with a doctor about colon and prostrate cancer screening. Early detection can stop a killer.
I’m not at age 50 yet, no matter what the gray may suggest.
But cancer does not discriminate. In December we plan to visit and offer a donation to Hospital 57357, the foundation number of the Children’s Cancer Hospital of Egypt.
At 320 beds it is considered the largest in the world. Modeled after St. Jude’s in Tennessee, it treats patients completely free of charge.
We have visited once before, and it can be a difficult thing to introduce yourself and offer words of encouragement to the innocents suffering. But it is a good thing to do, and we trust our children will learn even from our discomfort.
Mine, perhaps. My wife was much more natural. Our kids were a mixed bag. Perhaps next time will be easier.
But whether I go with my semblance of a beard will be up to our children. Today as November ends I’ll put it to a vote if they want me to shave or continue growing for another month.
My wife will break a tie. Of course, she can veto the whole process if she likes.
I must say, though, it has been fun. Please let us know if you would like to donate also.
Jayson Casper 