White Bear Lake Helps with Buzz Cuts for Billy

Billy Pilacinski, a sixth-grader at St. Mary of the Lake, wasn’t surprised when his schoolmates opted to shave their heads at Indulge Salon to show their support for him this past winter. But when 41 people ages 6 to 60 showed up, the White Bear Lake community did more than he and his family ever thought possible. “The salon was bursting with boys and parents,” says Beth Pilacinski, Billy’s mother. “It was like a slumber party with food, beverages and crazy kids.” Some of those ‘crazy kids’ included Billy’s hockey teammates, whom Pilacinski says have been a source of overwhelming support.
   
In December 2012, Billy was diagnosed with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH). While it is not considered cancer, the treatments are very similar, including chemotherapy. Billy goes to chemotherapy once a week, and will have recurring MRIs to make sure he remains healthy. Today, Billy tells his mom that he just wants to get through it and get on with his life.
   
“We were so honored to be a part of the event,” says Kim Schoonover, owner of Indulge Salon. “Billy is such a wonderful young man.” She says the event was a blast, and all the boys, dads and moms who came in had a great time. No girls decided to get their hair buzzed, but Billy’s mom says she spotted a little girl doing her part by sweeping up the hair from the floor.