SAN DIEGO (CBS 8) - For more than 30 years the non-profit organization Wigs for Kids has provided free wigs to children in need.
The hair is donated by people all over the country, including residents in San Diego.
[RELATED: Breast Cancer Can't Stop San Diegans]
At La Costa Meadows Elementary School, students grow out their hair only to cut it all off during a once a year event when the playground becomes a giant barber shop.
Second grade teacher Renee Mone started the tradition when her friend, kindergarten teacher Andrea Revell, was diagnosed with breast cancer.
“It’s been five years and I am a survivor. I am just honored that all of the kids are here for us and we are here for them,” said Revell.
This year’s guest of honor was Mary Seki who recently battled breast cancer, donning a wig after her chemotherapy treatments. But Seki’s hair has since grown back and she and her daughter Malia donated their ponytails to Wigs for Kids.
“It’s for the cause. It’s for the kids. It’s not about the hair. It’s about the cause,” said Mone.
It’s a cause, just like the hair they donate, keeps growing.
“It’s about respect. It’s about kindness and it’s about making a difference,” said Mone.
More than 60 ponytails were collected Thursday, November 12, which will be enough for three wigs.
You can join CBS 8 in the fight against breast cancer at the 2015 San Diego 3-Day November 20 - 22.
Also, leave a message on the CBS 8 Breast Cancer Can't Stop San Diegans: Wall of Inspiration celebrating the survivors in your life or honoring your lost loved ones.