Most of us have heard of the phrase No-Shave November on social media and from family and friends. This winter trend was created to bring awareness about the battle many people and their loved ones have had with cancer. The idea is for people to let their hair (that many cancer patients lose) grow for the whole month of November as way unique way to remind people that people battling cancer don’t have the same luxury. People are encouraged to use their savings from not buying shaving and hair care products to donate to cancer research programs.
This History of No-Shave November
No-shave November was created in 2009 after the father of the creators, Matthew Hill, died from colorectal cancer. He and his family had already started practicing not shaving in November and donating the proceeds to cancer research and education. However, his family was not the first with an idea of this nature, in 2003 a group of friends in Australia coined the term “Movember” with a similar movement focused on the mustache. In the past 25 years, these charities have raised millions in donations that have helped further research for prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer.
How to Participate:
1. Let Your Hair Grow
This is the most obvious of the ways to participate. Whatever your usual haircut/shave regimen is put it on pause! This your chance to show off those locks!
2. Set Up Your Own Fundraiser
You can set up your own personal fundraiser or combine your efforts with family and friends.
3. Spread the Word
When people ask why you aren’t shaving, tell them! Share the hashtag #noshavenovember.
No-shave November draws attention on its own because it’s a visual way to raise awareness. It is a fun and different approach to helping to change the world.
