Thirty-one people are preparing to shave their heads for what might arguably be the boldest fundraising challenge on the Island.St Baldrick’s, an event started by three Bermuda-based business executives, has seen hundreds of people brave the blade in exchange for donations.The event has generated more than $92 million for childhood cancer research since it was founded in 2000.At the start of the new millenium, only 25 percent of all children’s cancer was curable; today, it is over 80 percent.Still the numbers of childhood cancer sufferers are astounding 160,000 children are diagnosed with cancer each year; about one child every three-and-a-half minutes. One out of five diagnosed will not survive.Charity spokesperson Marcia Breen said the event typically has a small percentage of women sign up, but this year more than half of the local participants, approximately 17 out of 31, are female.“Since 2000 there has been 144,000 shavees and only 12,000 were women that is only eight percent.“Thirty-one people signed up so far and more than half are women. I just find that really remarkable that so many women here on the Island are willing to step up.”Seven of the participants this year are children; all-but-one of whom will be taking part in a seperate event at Saltus Grammar School. Eight-year-old Magnus Henneberger is one of those who will have his shaggy blonde hair shaved on March 17.The main shave will be held Friday, March 18 at the Bermuda Athletic Association (BAA).The Island has raised more money than any of the other 28 participating countries around the globe, said Mrs Breen. Last year Bermuda’s 48 participants managed to rake in $598,000.She said the top event in the United States raised $499,000 and that was with 463 shavees.“It’s indicative of the spirit here in Bermuda. People are so giving and community-oriented. I think it is something to be very proud of.”.This year’s event is aiming to raise $1 million almost double what was raised last year.Mrs Breen has encouraged the public to give to the cause, but said the event represents more than just cash.“It’s not just about raising money for kids, but showing solidarity with them who may be losing their hair and may feel weird or out of place, to say look at all these people who are bald too.“It’s more than just raising money, but having fun doing it.”People can visit www.stbaldricks.org and search for Bermuda or specific participants to donate.They can also choose whether they want the money to stay in Bermuda, and go to cancer charity PALS, or go directly to St Baldrick’s, which funds cancer research at Dana Farber Cancer Centre in Massachusetts.Useful website: www.stbaldricks.orglWhat are you doing for St Baldrick’s Day? Let us know. E-mail news[AT]royalgazette.bm