Hold that haircut – at least until March 21, when every clip will count in the fight against cancer, as Jerome Harrison Elementary School (JHS) hosts its 2016 St. Baldrick's event in honor of local kids battling for their lives.

Last year's event was inspired by young Northford resident Lyla Bogardus and as support grew, its focus widened to include even more local kids in treatment or remission.

Dozens of supporters turned out to have their heads shaved or locks shorn close. Each raised funds from supporters in return for their pledge to get in the barber's seat during a festive event in the JHS gym. The 2015 event raised nearly $35,000 donated to non-profit St. Baldrick's Foundation, which gives grants to medical organizations to support childhood cancer research.

This year, organizer Judy Bannon said little Lyla, who is eight years old, is once again the inspiration, together with a youngster in remission from acute lymphoblastic leukemia, known "Michael M." of Madison at the request of his family.

Lyla was first diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare cancer of the muscle cells, in December of 2009, when she was only two and a half years old. Sadly, Bannon reports, Lyla is battling her fourth relapse with rhabdomyosarcoma.

"She is such a courageous young thing," said Bannon, a second-grade teacher at JHS who enjoyed sharing her classroom with Lyla during the 2014-2015 school year.

In the last few years, the eight-year old Northford resident has been lifted up by community support that's spilled over into district-wide fundraisers. Lyla's friends and fans are invited to cheer her on during a special moment planned for this year's St. Baldrick's event, set for March 21 from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. at JHS, 335 Foxon Road.

"Some fun things that will be happening this year will be a short 'Parade of Heroes' in which our honored kids will parade a short distance, and we will ask townspeople and participants to line the street and cheer for them," said Bannon, adding people who come to show their support will also find a DJ inside and face painting for kids.

Adding to the festive atmosphere – and also new this year – will be food trucks, including New Haven Pizza, The Spud Stud (overstuffed toppings on baked potatoes) and Sugar (famous cupcakes). A portion of food truck sales proceeds from the day will also be donated to the cause.

Organizers are encouraging anyone who wants to sign on as a "shavee" or volunteer to visit https://www.stbaldricks.org/events/jerome16. Donations can be made at the website.

Bannon said organizers also are seeking additional children to be recognized as "honored kids" on March 21 (whether in treatment, in remission) and the event will also honor those may have succumbed to cancer.  More information is available; contact Bannon at harmony1958@sbc.global.net or call (203) 215-6117.