It’s been five days since the big chop. Five days since I gave part of myself to someone in need. As I brush through my hair, it doesn’t end where it used to. But just having the title ‘short hair’ now gives someone else a title that they have been wishing for. 

Many tears, smiles, laughs and hugs were shared last Friday, Jan 5 during the Day of Giving. The assembly was on just a random Friday. But that random Friday was one of the biggest days for not only one person, but for everyone who donated and are about to receive a gift. A gift of a lifetime. 

Going into the gym on the fifth was a wave of emotions. At first it was just happy smiles, seeing all of my friends, and showing them the hairbands and where they lined up on my hair. Then it hit me: sudden sadness. 

Sitting there, waiting for the chop, I saw one of the people who has affected my 2023-24 school year the most: sophomore Ady Lavallee. As a child she suffered from Leukemia, and seeing her that day just broke me. Knowing I have this opportunity to not only represent my grandfather, but also do this for her. 

I am so fortunate to know I have done this for the family and friends I love most, and that this won’t be my last time. 

If you want to make a difference, be an angel next year: 2025.