More and more kept streaming through the door as the final Cuts for Cancer hosted at the Chop Shop got underway on Monday morning.
Cathy Morse announced this year would be the last event she could host and the little Chop Shop that could, over the decade, has been an incredible fundraiser for the Drumheller Area Health Foundation. What started out as a way to honour her mother, became a major fundraiser supporting those who were battling cancer and their families in the Drumheller area.
"It was such a good day, we cut until after six, said Morse. "Like every year it was overwhelming, it is always emotional. It is unbelievable the support we get."
Going into the event Morse had set the lofty goal of driving the all time total over $200,000, and it looks like her goal is within reach. At day's end, the event had raised $35,728 of the $40,000 target.
Some of the regulars like Walter Albrecht, who has participated every year since 2009 were there. He brought in $2,700. Sterling Martin, acute care manager at the Drumheller Health Centre was challenged by Joe Eccelston and Logan Arsenault followed in her brother Chase’s footsteps who participated last year. By 1 p.m., she had raised $2,400 and counting. She donated her hair to Angel Hair For Kids.
More supporters included Sue Shields, Jo Jensen, Jeanette Giesbrecht, Nate Faubion and Carolina Bitz. The staff at WHIFS brought in a welcome donation after pooling their tips the day before in memory of a colleague who lost her battle with cancer.
It was an emotional event for Morse as supporters streamed through the door. The Drumheller Titans were on site during the day barbecuing to support the cause. Inside, all hands were on deck chopping and more volunteers were in the office trying to come up with a running tally.
The best was saved for the last. After a decade of coaxing and cajoling friends and relatives into getting in the barber chair, it was her turn. Morse, as a thank you to all who participated over the years sheared her hair at the end of the day. It was a bittersweet end however Morse is confident another stylist may pick up the event and continue the legacy.
Morse says she will continue to collect funds until the end of February.
