It’s hard to name someone in Plant City with a larger heart for others than Michelle Valdes. Her love for the community led her to create Operation Paying It Forward, an organization that raises money and awareness to step up and help the community whenever there is a need.
The group took a young boy named Braeden under its wing when he was in his fight against cancer. While in remission they showered him with gifts and support only to find the cancer had returned. They’ve supported him every step of the way and created the Going Bald for a Cause event in his honor.
Early Thursday morning a crowd gathered around two chairs in the center of a lightly decorated room. Valdes decided to host the event on her birthday and invited the community to celebrate and take part in the festivities. Donations were taken in Braeden’s honor and the crowd held its breath as Valdes and Katrina Crumley had their heads shaved to show their support for Braeden and other who have been impacted by cancer. Gina Rodriguez also cut her ponytail to support the cause.
Vice Mayor Nate Kilton shaved the first strip from Valdes’ head and two beauticians stepped in to complete the haircuts. While her hair was being shaved Valdes shared the story of her own mother dying from cancer and explained to attendees how the group heard about Braeden. At the end the entire room waved and cheered to Braeden via a live stream.
Donations can still be made at operationpayingitforward.com.