My name is Mike Alvestad. I lost my mother to cancer 3 years ago. 5 months ago I made a bet with a co-worker to grow out my hair long enough so I could donate it to a charitable organization that makes wigs for cancer patients (10 inches!). What started out as a bet with a co-worker has turned in to the idea of How can I do more? How can I inspire others going through a difficult time? Well, here it is, my goal is to raise as much money as possible and give back to cancer research and the community: 20% to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 20% to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 20% to the Altru Foundation for the Kathy Alvestad Compassionate Nursing Award and 40% to families who are currently in battle.

My inspiration...March 15, 2016 will mark the 3 year anniversary of the day my amazing mother went to heaven. Kathy Alvestad's  battle with cancer started in 1999 when she was diagnosed with leukemia. She won this battle with a lot courage, determination, prayer and hope. After being in remission for 3 years, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2004. Another battle which she overcame; however, the third battle was the toughest. In August of 2012 my mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Not a day goes by that my mom isn't in our thoughts. "Mama K", as her nursing co-workers called her, is the strongest woman I have ever known and a true warrior that "lived" with cancer and inspired the lives of those around her every single day. A true superhero!