Crystal is not a gem, you say? That is simply because you do not know Crystal Hale, the newest hero to undergo the clippers in support of childhood cancer research. What makes her story so amazingly awesome is that Crystal will be parting with 10 inches of hair, a hair length she has been sporting since she was a toddler. If you have read my blog or have heard me talk of my own extrication of hair, you will know that I tend to shrug it off by saying that it will grow back. And, in my case, it will. However, in Miss Hale’s case, it will take close to TWO YEARS to make her whole again. Now THAT is what I call a sacrifice.
To make her situation even more extraordinary, she was anticipating that others would be along side of her as she shed her locks. But as in life, things don’t always work out as planned, and circumstances were such that she was left solo in her endeavors. Instead of backing down in a situation where most likely would, she stood firm in her conviction to make a difference and will be moving forward as planned this Saturday evening.
Of her own admission, her friends and family think she is crazy. And I can certainly empathize with her receiving these reactions as I too, was a recipient of the same sentiments. One of my dearest friends had sheepishly shared with me that “she feels partially defined by her hair.” If this is the general consensus, I can certainly see why so many find it perplexing to forgo something we think is so vital in the shaping of who we are. While I do not wish to downplay the importance of the role that our hair plays in our society today, I pledge that it is time that we find other ways to define ourselves. I would much rather see us define ourselves by our heart, our courage, our love and our strength versus our skin, our hair, our body, our height, our clothes, our car, our house or our salary.
Whether or not you know me or Crystal; whether you stumbled across this website by accident or have been here a thousand times, I ask that you join me in showing your support to this true champion by sharing an encouraging sentiment on this blog entry. While Crystal is admittedly anxious about her decision, and understandably so, I would love to see our community rally around her and show her that we all define her by her conviction and heart – making her a true hero!
Crystal,
I applaud what you are doing for the sake of all children that are affected by cancer. The personal sacrifice that you are making with your own hair is awesome. This event will be just another chapter in the life story of Crystal Hale. Way to go Crystal!!!
Andy Goodwin – Family Heritage Agent
To Crystal from Deb’s Mom
Webster defines sacrifice as “the forfeiture of something highly valued for the sake of one considered to have a greater value or claim”. What you are doing on Saturday, shedding your locks to raise funds for cancer research, is a gift to each and every child afflicted with this devastating disease. We all make choices in life. Try something new. You may find that you look great with short hair. Go for it and enjoy the journey.
Hey Crystal,
What you are doing on Saturday could save a child’s life. You are doing what my wife and I just did three weeks ago. It’s something a lot of people have done for this great cause, after all it’s only hair, no big deal, it will grow back. It is a big deal, however, to change your appearance in one fell swoop by shaving your hair off. You are a beautiful person for giving of yourself for a great cause and to help the kids and all the families affected by cancer. I can’t wait to give you a big hug in Orlando and maybe a kiss if Deb says it’s O.K. You Rock!!!!
Gary (the SuRVivor Tour Driver)
Although it is easy to get people interested in changing the world, in the end, most back down in order to preserve their own self interests. Not you, Crystal. You continue to push forward with what is right, even in the face of self-doubt and skepticism. This is what makes great leaders. Leaders impact the world one person at a time. Leaders are ordinary people with extraordinary determination. You are a leader.
Steve – Deb’s brother
Crystal,
It has been such a pleasure to get to know you as you planned your head-shaving. From that first conversation, I knew that you were going to do something AMAZING! I wish you the best on Saturday. Please know that not only will you be sacrificing your hair and raising money, but you will be bringing awareness to everyone you meet from this day forward about childhood cancer. Thank you for being a HERO!!!
~Enisha and the entire St. Baldrick’s Team
Crystal,
Crystal,
You really are doing an amazing thing even though people are probably wondering and asking themselves “why.” Don’t worry about that. Hair grows back. You know it’s a totally fantastic thing you’re doing and for good reason too!! Congrats, have fun and good luck!!!!
Nadeen Virgo- Family Heritage Agent
Crystal,
Sometimes words cannot fully express gratitude. I have family and friends who have dealt with cancer in many forms. Your sacrafice will not go unnoticed. Hats off to you.
Alisa – Just a Friend
You go girl……
Crystal,
Your heart, hopes and dreams are the important things in our lives. The satisfaction comes from giving. Give all you can, when and while your able. It makes you smile, it keeps you happy and lifes struggles become easier.
We all have our difficulties but certain hurts can ease as we do for others.
Stay focused and life will be good for you and yours. We wish you the best…….
If you care to write……..please do. Just put Crystal/Deb in the subject line.
I will do my best to encourage you. I’ve traveled this road long and hard and have a many more years ahead of me. The people I’ve met have along the way have become my family and without them…….goodness knows what I’d do. Stay strong and as healthy as possible.
Al & Ethel Jacobs, former neighbors of Deb and her wonderful family. XOXO 16546
Thank you, all, for your kind words and support. I am having some trouble with my computer, but was able to read all of this on my phone the day after the event. It couldn’t have come at a better time! Sometimes we get so caught up in ourselves that we forget the reasons we do things. Your words snapped me back to the reality of the value of this fundraiser. Thanks for that, as well.
I have limited time and access at the moment, but promise to post pics and blogs next week, when my computer is more cooperative!
Crystal