Hey everyone — thanks so much for supporting me as I fundraise for Duke cancer research and the I'm Not Done Yet Foundation through Shave and Buzz, the largest student-led philanthropy project at Duke. Shave and Buzz was started in 2016 to support two students simultaneously undergoing cancer treatment. In the 9 years since, Shave and Buzz has raised over $1 million. That's an incredible accomplishment for such a short period of time, and I’m grateful to be part of it this year. I’ll be taking on a series of challenges for each fundraising goal I hit, all leading up to March 29, when I (along with many other Duke students) will be shaving my head in support.

When adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients who have completed treatment are asked their biggest concerns, the most common is: "Will I be able to have children?" It’s not the risk for cancer recurrence or disability and disfigurement - the desire to build a family is their highest priority.  In addition to the toxicity of cancer treatments themselves, chronic health conditions can occur in the aftermath of any cancer treatment protocol, and infertility is among the most common long-term complication.

So, it’s unfortunate that in the confusion and deluge of information during a new cancer diagnosis, including staging, testing, treatment and prognosis, the topic of fertility preservation can be set aside or forgotten.   AYA cancer patients report a lack of adequate information to make informed fertility decisions.  Meeting the unique fertility goals of every patient requires appropriate fertility counseling, as well as logistical and financial access to fertility care.

One of I’m Not Done Yet's mission is to provide the resources for AYA cancer patients to preserve their fertility. 

Your support of the Shave & Buzz will help ensure that these young patients have the HOPE that despite having cancer, they can one day have a family of their own.