The Los Angeles Fire and Police Departments have teamed up valiantly together for 15 years to fight kids’ cancer. By partnering with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, firefighters and police officers shave their heads to raise vital funds to support childhood cancer research. This year’s event, held on March 4th at Fire Station 89 in North Hollywood, was another huge success, as more than $70K has been raised so far to battle the number one killer of children in the United States.
Over 200 brave souls were shaved from 7:30 am to 1:00 pm, including the members of the public and even women and children! In a display of leadership and solidarity, Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas and Councilmember Paul Krekorian joined together on stage to shave fire and police noggins with Moni Meza and students from Avena Institute of Los Angeles, and celebrity barbers Patrika Darbo of “Days of Our Lives” and Michael Campion of “Fuller House.”
The crowd enjoyed the Pancake Factory/Coffee Bean pancake/sausage breakfast prepared on UFLAC’s “Mother Of All Barbecues” in the shelter of a giant canopy donated by ACE Party Rents in North Hollywood. The kids were all smiles as they were entertained by Betsy Quezada’s face painting and Magic Castle magicians who graciously donated their time and services. The fire and police apparatus were highlighted by LAPD SWAT’s “Bearcat” and LAFD Firefighter Ryan Penrod delighted the crowd with Wilshire the Fire Dog’s fire safety routine. Precious Pix’s Laura Lichter worked with LAPD Motor Officer Laura Gerritson to set up a photo booth using her electric LAPD dirtbike as a unique prop in order to raise even more money. As always Kelly Khoury of KENK USA insured there were plenty of drinks and snacks for everyone throughout the day. An amazing honored kids booth and successful silent auction/raffle were organized by the Los Angeles Police Federal Credit Union’s Laura Hixson and Kevin Le.
The only setback this year was the absence of the UCLA Blood Mobile which encountered mechanical problems en route to the event. However, in true supporting fashion Vicky Nguyen and her UCLA blood donor staff still participated in the day’s festivities which included LAFD Cadet Stephen Celi’s Eagles cover band Dark Desert Highway and DJ/LAFD Firefighter Greg Balandran working together to create a musically festive atmosphere. The crowd enjoyed shopping for apparel at the Fire Attire and City Employee Club of Los Angeles booths, chatting with the World Police/Fire Games and North Hollywood Northeast Neighborhood Council representatives. The LAFD and Civil Air Patrol Cadets were on hand to logistically insure that the day went smoothly.
One of the pleasant surprises this year was the appearance of retired LAFD Captain Waldie Brangham, who founded the event 15 years ago. He smiled ear to ear as he watched another highlight of the day as brave six year old Lindsey Heath had her head shaved by her best friend and “honored kid” Hazel Hammersely, who is still fighting the good fight against cancer.
The St. Baldrick’s Foundation, LAFD, and LAPD would like to thank all the participants and supporters for the event over the years such as those previously mentioned, in addition to the Jay Leno Foundation, Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association, Firefighters First Credit Union, and Los Angeles Police Protective League. The monies generated come from the hard work of the participants reaching out to sponsors who either give them cash or checks, or donate online at www.stbaldricks.org/events/lafdlapd2017 (HINT—You can still donate online).
In 15 years, the event has raised more than $1.1 million dollars, and we look forward to seeing you all next year!
By LAFD Captain Danny Wu and LAPD Lieutenant Greg Doyle