Locks of Love For Hannah

February has been a busy month, what with the heart project and Jump Rope for Heart and Valentine's Day--the month is only half over! My heart has been filled with the spirit of giving this month!


A couple of weeks ago, I got a notification in my facebook inbox about a "Cut-A Thon", a local fundraiser for a small child suffering from cancer. I glanced at it quickly and assumed it was a request for me to participate in "Locks of Love". I've had very long hair for the last couple of decades. I cut it once, on a whim (and donated my hair), and was terribly unhappy for several years until it grew back. My long red locks have essentially become a part of my identity. I was not sure I was ready to cut my hair again, but the fundraiser was in 2 days. After much thought, I finally decided that I wanted to do it. I would donate my locks in honor of the sweet little girl whose mom had sent me the invitation. Hannah is doing pretty well now, but I remember her last year, bald and frail, with a beautiful sunny spirit. I'm so thankful for the wonderful families I teach. Sometimes, one of those special families come along and we just bond. I've come to grow quite close to Hannah and her family.  I decided to go through with it, but was too scared to let Hannah's family know. I was too afraid I'd back out at the last minute.


The morning of the fundraiser came and I felt pretty good about it. I was ready! I pulled up to the salon and there were people everywhere, in lines inside and out. I made my way to the reception counter and began to tear up just a little, as I told the girl I wanted to cut my hair for Locks of Love. At that moment, I felt a slam against my legs from behind, hugging me tight. I turned, and there was my Hannah. "Mrs. Ayn!" she exclaimed. I finished checking in and walked over to where her family was seated. The whole family was there, all getting haircuts--Mom, Dad, Grandma, Hannah and her 2 younger sisters, Alyssa and Brenna. When I told Hannah's mom that I wanted to donate my locks in Hannah's honor, they all decided to stay and cheer me on. 

It was a fabulous day! It's been an adjustment, but I haven't regretted it for a single second. It was truly one of the most beautiful moments of my life!