Stylists snipping away at cancer one cut at a time
"This is a great way to join together in our community, get some great haircuts or chair massages and raise money to help make a difference in the fight against cancer. Together we can make a difference." - Jan Dornak
By QUALA MATOCHA lifestyle@leader-news.com
Cancer seems to touch someone at sometime in their life.

L-N Photo by Quala Matocha Rita's Razors' owner Rita Velez (right) is just one of the hairstylists in Wharton County taking part in the 13th Annual Cuts for Cancer this Sunday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Cutting and styling hair at their regular prices, participating salons will contribute those funds to the American Cancer Society. Getting her hair styled is Rebecca Mendez.

It's people like Jan Dornak, Toodie Brady and Rita Velez who realize the real need for a cure. Each has known someone in their family or workplace affected by the disease. That is why they are teaming up again this year with other hairstylists in area for the 13th Annual Cuts for Cancer.

"We all know someone who has been affected by cancer," organizer Jan Dornak said.

Proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society.

This Sunday, Feb. 10, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., patrons will have an opportunity to get their hair cut and styled at one of these five participating salons with their money going to cancer research:

El Campo:

Hair Enterprises, 1406 N. Mechanic, 543-7757; Modern Salon of Beauty, 710 Ave. C, 543-4311; and Rita's Hair Razors, 200 W. Monseratte, 578-0333.

Wharton:

Aurora's Beauty Salon, W. Ahldag, 532-3121.

Glen Flora:

Michael's Barber & Styling, 141 S. Bridge, 677-3542.

Chair massages will also be offered by Karen Merecka, LMT, at Hair Enterprises, 541-9010.

"Cuts for Cancer has always meant alot to me, as well as the other stylists who continue to donate their time and money each year for this great cause," Dornak said.

"But this year, as my dad faces his second battle with cancer, it is especially meaningful to me."

While walk-ins are welcome, Dornak suggests making an appointment would alleviate the wait time.

Door prizes will also be drawn, so be sure to register for those at each salon. Prizes will include one free PSA test and one free mammogram donated by E.C. Memorial Hospital and Mid Coast Medical Clinic; two free wellness tests donated by Gulf Coast Medical Center and seven free fun and healthy baskets donated by South Texas Medical Clinics.

Educational pamphlets and brochures about cancer awareness are being provided to each customer from the American Cancer Society.

Customers unable to make it to participate this Sunday but wishing to make a contribution may do so by contacting one of the participating salons.

"This is a great way to join together in our community, get some great haircuts or chair massages and raise money to help make a difference in the fight against cancer," Dornak said. Together we can make a difference."