This weekend, a group of local firefighters from C.O.M.M. shaved their heads to support The One Mission, Kid’s Cancer Buzz-Off.   It was a fun and unforgettable event where participants shaved their heads in honor and support of kids with cancer.  Along with New England Patriots tight end, Rob “Gronk” Gronkowski, they did their part to raise awareness for pediatric cancer, participating in the 5th annual “Buzz-Off” at Gillette Stadium.  I was able to meet Pat Hill, from Centerville shortly after the event who said he would do it all again next year to raise money for this great cause.  Pat was C.O.M.M.’s top fund raiser with over $1,500 in pledged money, helping the team raise a total of $5,212.37 so far.  They raised almost $4000 more than their combined goal as “Team C.O.M.M. Fire”…that’s 348% of their goal achieved!  The team included firefighters Pat Hill, Jason Davern, Nolan O’Melia, Sean Greene, Enrique Arrascue, Gus Riley and Matthew Dillon.

One Mission has partnered with Family Reach to provide financial relief to families who have a child battling cancer and are struggling to make ends meet.  The goal this year is to raise $1.6 Million for pediatric cancer patients and their families through events such as the popular “Buzz-Off”.   The money that is raised is able to help families cover everyday home bills that accumulate due to lost wages (mortgage, utilities, insurance), child care and palliative care just to name a few.  Receiving treatment and care for cancer can keep families in the hospital for weeks and months on end…a process that takes a toll on them physically, emotionally and financially. The funds raised by the Kid’s Cancer Buzz-Off were able to bring relief to 34 families who are coping with the financial challenges of cancer.

COMM firefighters had the opportunity to meet a young man, Jayden Dalton of Foxboro who was diagnosed with cancer at only months old.  Now a fifth grader, Jayden is known for stating boldly, “I have cancer, but cancer doesn’t have me!” Dalton’s parents, Steven and Sheila are thankful for fundraisers like this which can take off some of the financial expenses of cancer treatment for their son.

Fighting fires is what C.O.M.M. does on a daily basis, but spending an inspiring day where everyone stands together and fights the battle against cancer…that’s inspiring.    “Heads Shaved.  Money Raised.  Lives Changed!”

If you would also like to help families with children who have cancer, donations can be made by visiting www.kidscancerbuzzoff.org

Photos provided by Pat Hill, COMM FD Firefighter

6/10/2014

Kristy’s Korner
by Kristy Spinelli, spinelliscoop@hotmail.com

Kristy is a local writer and Hyannis News contributor. Her views, opinions, and observations will deal with a wide range of topics surrounding our local HyTown culture. Kristy’s views do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Hyannis News, but in the true spirit of freedom of expression are intended to entertain and create discussion. Feel free to add your own thoughts in the facebook comment section below… or you may also contact Kristy directly at spinelliscoop@hotmail.com.

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