William H. Kelly III
Associate Editor
The month of November comes with a surplus of duties, holidays, and community service events for students to become involved with as well as members of the community. When most people think of November, the first things that come to mind are probably food drives, Veteran’s Day, and of course Thanksgiving.
While Turkey Day is by far one of the best holidays, especially for those of us who prefer to pass out from over indulging, No Shave November is the first thing that comes to mind when I think of November.
Many people are curious as to what purpose No Shave November serves. The sole purpose of No Shave November is to bring awareness to men’s health but more specifically to the different forms of cancer.
To properly participate in this “battle of the beards” you must refrain from shaving and grooming throughout the entire month of November. Some of you are probably wondering if there is a wonderful prize at the end. Technically, no there is not a prize but if done correctly, you’ll be able to say you were a part of a major breakthrough.
My first time hearing about this insanely interesting form of awareness was during my freshman year and I also participated that same year. While the itchy, bumpy face and people insulting my wolf-like features were great, I still managed to push through and finish the entire month.
At the time, my grandfather was finishing his treatments for his colon cancer. I was informed that he was diagnosed with colon cancer before I left for college so it hit me pretty hard.
My grandfather is my main purpose for participating. To help bring awareness to the things that affect us as men and human beings on a daily basis.
Some of the most common cancers among men include prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer. Quitting smoking habits, eating healthier, and getting screened are major ways to help lower and prevent deaths from cancer.
I encourage everyone to participate in any way that you can, both male and female, just to be a part of a movement with a legitimate purpose and test your limits. This journey of growing your hair is all about embracing it and appreciating it, considering that cancer patients lose their hair.
This year I will be joining this hairy journey the best way that I can. I managed to get about two weeks in before I had to clean up my face for the Sigma Gamma Rho, Sorority, Inc. Mr. RHOmance Pageant. I made sure that my facial hair remained thick and full due to my guilt from getting a cut.
Considering that my facial hair grows faster than someone who applies hair growth serum to their beards, I’ll just say I wanted the other participants to have time to catch up.
Being ridiculed for resembling a wild mammal doesn’t hurt when you have a purpose behind it.
Drop the razors. Drop the clippers. Don’t even think about using that Nair and grow your hair for those who can’t.
