Yesterday marked the halfway point of No-Shave November, an event held each year to spread awareness and raise funds to support cancer education, advocacy, and research. This year, I’m growing out this scratchy, stubborn gray beard in Julie’s honor—and to raise awareness about something deeply concerning: the rise in early-onset colorectal cancer. More young people are being diagnosed every year, and too many families are being affected by it.

If you’re able, I’d be grateful for your support. I’m raising funds for Fight Colorectal Cancer, an organization working to advance research, support patients, and push for earlier detection.

Every dollar makes a difference.
Every share helps spread awareness.
And every beard hair… well, those are just along for the ride.

I’m thankful for @Jennifer’s encouragement to participate and putting up with my scratchy beard for the month. As one of my friends at work reminds me, by December 1st my long gray beard will look like Santa for the month of December. 

Thank you for helping honor Julie and for standing with everyone affected by this disease.