Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – On November 24, 2024, the community will come together at Los Arcos del Malecón to support local children and young people battling cancer through the Mi Amigo Sin Pelo campaign. This meaningful event, organized by the Asociación Femenil Vallartense (Vallarta Women’s Association), runs from 5:00 to 11:00 pm and aims to raise awareness and funds for cancer treatments.
The event’s name, which translates to “My Friend Without Hair,” highlights its key message: solidarity with children facing the challenges of cancer. Participants are encouraged to shave their heads or donate hair as a gesture of support, symbolizing unity with these children. Family-friendly activities, including live music, clowns, and cultural performances, will fill the evening, along with food prepared by mothers of children undergoing cancer treatment.
All proceeds will benefit CANICA, the Center for Children with Cancer, which supports more than 1,000 young cancer patients in Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and beyond. Right now, 31 low-income families from Puerto Vallarta rely on CANICA’s assistance for regular trips to Guadalajara for treatment—often traveling four to five times each month.
Evelia Basañez, President of the Vallarta Women’s Association, emphasized the urgent need for community support, with a goal of raising at least $150,000 pesos to help with transportation costs. “These children need our help to continue their treatments. Without financial support, many may have to stop due to lack of resources,” she explained.
For those willing to donate their hair, Basañez clarified that women’s hair will be sold for extensions to help fund the program, while men shaving their heads signifies solidarity with the children. Basañez clarifies, “The ‘friend without hair’ is not the child, but each person who participates.” Participants who choose this option receive a commemorative T-shirt and the opportunity to interact with CANICA children and families.
Whether you decide to shave your head or simply enjoy the festivities, this event offers a meaningful way to support Puerto Vallarta’s children in their fight against cancer. Even small donations can make a big difference as CANICA works to raise the 500,000 to 600,000 pesos needed annually to operate.
“We hope that everyone in Puerto Vallarta will come together for this important cause,” said Basañez. “Invite your friends and family, and help improve the lives of these brave children.”
To learn more about CANICA, or to make a donation, visit canica.org.mx. For more information about this year’s edition of Mi Amigo Sin Pelo, visit their Facebook page.