Officers ‘go bald’ for cancer fundraiser

On Oct. 9 the Fayetteville Police Dept. and the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office held a fundraiser to benefit the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance. More than 50 local law enforcement officers, medical personnel and citizens came to the event and donated money to have their heads shaved. Three local barbers, Sam Burch, Stacey Pitts and Sandra Branson donated their time and abilities.

The event was held in honor of Fayetteville Police Det. Joanna Macpherson who is battling ovarian cancer, said Fayetteville Det. Mike Whitlow.

“Detective Macpherson is currently undergoing chemotherapy treatments and knew that she would be losing her hair. Though this is a very private battle, she decided to lose her hair on her terms and in a way that raised awareness for the disease,” Whitlow said.

The event raised over $1,300 for ovarian cancer research, Whitlow said.

Det. Macpherson said that she was “completely overwhelmed and blown away” by the response and the outpouring of support she has received.

“My brothers and sisters in law enforcement really came through today,” Macpherson said. “Hopefully, the money raised today will mean an end to this disease”.