Matt Hamilton of the United States cut his hair for charity in recognition of Brain Cancer Awareness Month.
Hamilton’s hair was more than simply a fashion statement for the 2018 and 2021 Winter Olympics. His lengthy locks were also helping to raise funds for a good cause.
The two-time curling Olympian from McFarland, Wisconsin, donated 12 inches of his hair to the nonprofit “Wigs for Kids,” which helps youngsters with hair loss.
Hamilton has his first haircut in almost three years.
What is StacheStrong?
After his brother GJ was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), the most common and deadly primary malignant brain tumor in adults, Gerner founded StacheStrong. GJ’s signature name was given to the organization when he underwent brain surgery in 2018.
Matt Hamilton’s haircut was part of his ongoing fundraising efforts for StacheStrong. It is a 501(c)(3) foundation that has generated more than $2 million for brain cancer research. It has sponsored 17 research grants and clinical studies.
During the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, Hamilton signed up with StacheStrong after president and co-founder Colin Gerner recognized his characteristic mustache and unique haircut.
Gerner explained, “It was really simply a family rallying call for my brother, who went into brain surgery and cut down to a moustache.” “My father and I did the same. When your older brother is going through something like this, it’s the only thing you can do. #StacheStrong was born, and we began to develop them as naturally as possible.”
GJ died in 2019 after a fight with brain cancer
Matt Hamilton had no personal experience with GBM when he initially joined StacheStrong, but that changed after learning of his uncle’s diagnosis.
“Two, three months later, I found out my uncle had stage 4 cancer, and we got the news he died on Valentine’s Day during the Olympics,” Matt Hamilton added. “Brain cancer, like any cancer, stinks, so any contribution I can make is welcome.”
StacheStrong is now running a brewery campaign in which each pint of beer sold will contribute $1 to their efforts to generate funds for brain cancer research. Six Wisconsin breweries are participating in the #BrewStacheStrong campaign if you want to raise a pint.