Cancer Patient Continues to Work for the Cause

It's her second bout with cancer in five years, but Roseann Velardo was not only present at the hair cutting event at Vito Mazza Salon & Spa on Monday, but was happily taking pictures of those having their hair cut.

"I was diagnosed in 2006," Roseann said.  Her friend Tilly worked then with Vito Mazza and surprised her with her first benefit, and then did another one in 2010.

But on April 2 of this year, Roseanne said she was re-diagnosed with cancer. That led to the haircutting fundraiser at Vito Mazza on Monday.

"The hair that is cut goes to Pantene, and four ponytails are needed to make one wig," Roseann said. "The wigs are then given to the American Cancer Society, who in turn give them to those who need them."

"This event was being planned for a long time," said salon receptionist Kathy Kielbus and Alyssa Capparucci. "Thirty five people are coming today to donate 8 or more inches of hair." 

Manager and Director of Client Services, Kristen Van-Angler, who coordinated the cut-a-thon, met Roseanne a number of years ago when she was an esthetician and Roseann was her client.

"The salon receives a good feeling for holding the event and possibly an occasional client, but they do it mostly to give back to the community," Kristen said.

Among those having their hair cut was Montana Barroll, 15, from Iselin, Brooke Feliciano, 7, from Colonia, and Jaime Jaskot, a teacher at Rainbow Academy Children's Center.

For both Montana and Jaime, this was not the first time donating their locks.  They both donated in the past for "Locks of Love". 

"I do this because sometimes you just have to give back," said Jaime, whohad an uncle who died from cancer along with other family members who suffered from the disease.  All were happy to be donating for the cause.

Follow Woodbridge Patch on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for the daily newsletter.