More than 35 people “lost their locks” and raised over $13,000 to send children with cancer to camp at the second annual Lose your Locks with Luke fundraising event held Oct. 20 at Old Saybrook High School. Participants willing to shave their heads raised money for the privilege of losing locks for a good cause.

Thanks to their generosity, that of the community and the more than 250 people who attended the event, a cabin full of children with cancer will enjoy Camp Rising Sun next summer.

Franco Carafano from radio station 100.9 FM K-hits joined Luke’s team and raised $3,000 himself from his loyal listening audience by shaving his head. He promoted losing his own locks live from the event and was the emcee. Old Saybrook First Selectman Carl Fortuna attended, and Associate Principal Joseph “Mr. A” Anastasio lost his locks.

In an on-air interview with Carafano, Luciano “Luke” Duffy spoke about his passion for Camp Rising Sun.

“At this camp bonds are formed, fun is had, and the laughter is endless. All of the campers are able to thrive without the limitations of their health challenges,” he said. “This event is for all the kids who cannot choose when they go bald or choose when they gain their angel wings.”

Luke talked of his love for his friend and fellow camper Marik who passed away this April from Osteosarcoma to whom this year’s event was dedicated. Marik’s mom, Kelli Tucker, spoke of Camp Rising Sun being the place where Marik was happiest.

“Marik asked for his last request that instead of flowers, donations be made to Camp Rising Sun in his honor,” she said. “It was his favorite place on Earth and the only place where he could truly be himself .. it’s a place where kids with cancer go to be kids, but more importantly it’s where those kids become family. And for that I am forever grateful.”

Twenty Camp Rising Sun campers and counselors attended the event and raised money by shaving their heads.

Special thanks go to Carafano, iMerchandise, Bob’s Discount Furniture, Joshua’s Limousine, as well as the amazing barbers and hair stylists who donated their time and for the wonderful support from the Old Saybrook High School administration.

The event was made possible through a collaboration with the OSHS Administration, Amber Scherber and the OSHS Interact Club, and Melissa Pandolfi, Outreach Director of Camp Rising Sun.

Donation’s for camperships to Camp Rising Sun can still be made on the event’s campaign page on crowdrise.com.

Luciano “Luke” Duffy is a senior at Old Saybrook High School.

Kindness in Real Life is a regular feature in the Times. To submit an item, email times@theday.com.