Published in the April 20, 2017 edition
Four Aldersgate Church members are participating in the June 2 Buzz Off For Kids With Cancer event. From left to right are John Wise, George Dow Sr, and Sam Fisher. Eli Spicer is also participating, but was unable to be in the picture. The link for donations is www.onemissionbuzzoff.org/melonheads. (Courtesy Photo)
By BILL LAFORME
NORTH READING – Four members of the Aldersgate Methodist Church hope to raise thousands of dollars for kids with cancer later this spring by shaving their heads at the annual Buzz Off For Kids With Cancer event at Gillette Stadium.
The event, held on June 2, benefits the nonprofit group One Mission, which works to make life brighter for young pediatric cancer patients and their families by organizing parties and other events, providing books, toys and games, birthday parties and holiday celebrations, as well as other needs such as defraying the cost of hospital parking.
In a conversation this week with the Transcript, John Wise said that will be his second time shaving his head for the cause, having recruited three fellow members of the “Melonballs” men’s church fellowship group at Aldersgate. Wise noted that it’s “half the battle there” to help kids and their families stay positive during long hospital stays. He added that he’s known people with cancer, calling it a terrible disease, especially for children. All four of the men reportedly grew beards for the event, which also be clipped off.
For last year’s Buzz Off, Wise estimated that he raised about $3,000. This year, the four men are hoping to raise a combined $15,000, although Wise said they still have a way to go toward that goal.
More than 1,000 people reportedly had their heads shaved last year, with New England Patriot Rob Gronkowski going first.
Anyone who would like to donate – or even join the team on June 2 – can visit their fundraising page at www.onemissionbuzzoff.org/melonheads.
