If you happen to run into Bryan Sturge on our Vermont campus, you might notice his long beard and hair. You might not think much of it, but he’s actually growing that beard and hair for a cause.
Bryan is participating in the First Annual Vermont Beardies, an ArtsRiot benefit for Make-A-Wish Vermont.
The contest, “Turn those Whiskers into Wishes” gives participants the chance to show off their beards for a good cause. The cause being a wish for a Vermont child with a life-threatening medical condition.
The winners of the online round were recently announced, and invited to The 2017 Vermont Beardies at ArtsRiot in Burlington this Saturday. Bryan will be in attendance, and will be critiqued by celebrity judges, including the original Most Interesting Man in the World, Jonathan Goldsmith and Burlington Mayor, Miro Weinberger. They will select winners in various categories including; Urban Freestyle and Backwoods.
Bryan has a connection to Make-A-Wish, and a personal reason for being a part of this contest.
His story is featured on his fundraising page;
“In October of 2013 I lost my best friend Zoey to cancer. She was more than just my friend, she was my 11 yr. old daughter. When I found out Zoey was sick I made a promise to her that I would not shave until she was cancer free. Once the news was broke to me that there was no cure for her, I asked her if she would like me to shave so she could see my face again. Her reply was “no, not until I’m free”. I was so proud of her, the fight she gave and the heart she had to make me keep my promise. Make-A-Wish Vermont granted Zoey her wish but sadly she passed before it was able to come true. I did shave, because of the promise we made and now I grow my beard in her memory. “
Also, if you’re wondering, what’s with the long hair to match the beard? Well in June of 2018, Bryan plans to cut five years of hair growth and donate it to Wigs for Kids.
Just another way he’s doing good with all that hair!