Ashley Russo: Why I’m Shaving My Head

Ashley Russo, Founder and President of ASR Media Productions and Chief Executive Officer at General Magnaplate Corporation, shared a post on LinkedIn:

“I’ve been asked a lot lately, ‘Why are you shaving your head?’

It’s a fair question and one I’ve had a full year to reflect on. This decision goes beyond a bold gesture; it’s an act of gratitude, a moment of solidarity, and a way to use my voice and platform for something far bigger than me.

If you feel inspired, I’d be honored to have your support.

Why I’m Shaving My Head

‘Why are you shaving your head?’

That’s the question I’ve been asked most often—and it’s a great one.

I’ve been drawn to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation Shave for the Brave event ever since I first learned about it. More than a decade ago, in ASR Media’s early days, we had the opportunity to cover a St. Baldrick’s shave at Emmaus High School. It was one of those deeply moving events that stays with you. It made me truly aware of the organization’s mission and the powerful impact they were having on childhood cancer research.

What stood out to me then and still does today is how St. Baldrick’s is genuinely moving the needle on pediatric cancer survival rates. Their commitment to funding innovative research is changing lives. And I remember thinking: I can use my voice and platform to help.

It’s one thing to contribute through your time, talent, or treasure which I try to do regularly, both personally and through my companies. But this felt different. This felt personal. Shaving my head became an opportunity to not just talk about action but to take it. It’s a way to physically show solidarity with children and families facing cancer. It’s a way to put myself, even briefly, in their shoes.

When I made the decision last fall to participate, I was all in. I was ready to jump in and get started. But St. Baldrick’s events don’t happen overnight and so, this past year has been an exercise in patience.

Amy Bucher, a dear friend and the organizer of our local shave, helped me see something important. She pointed out that this waiting, this anticipation I’ve been feeling, mirrors in a small way what it’s like for families facing a cancer diagnosis. There’s a lot of waiting. A lot of uncertainty. A lot of needing to stay strong in circumstances that feel out of your control. And here I am, learning patience in a situation where I have all the control. That’s been incredibly humbling.

In many ways, this feels like an act of gratitude. It’s a way to honor the good health of my husband, my children, and my family. It’s also something that sparks conversation. People are asking, ‘Why would someone do something like this?’ 

And to me, that’s a good thing.

It raises awareness. It makes people think about what they can do.

Most people have been incredibly supportive, though I’ll admit, I’ve gotten more than a few surprised reactions. Some people are shocked that I’m not afraid. But honestly, I’m not.

This just feels like the right thing to do at the right time.

Maybe part of it is turning 50 later this year. Shaving my head and going gray in the process feels like a symbolic turning of the page. A way to start this next chapter with purpose.

So no, I’m not nervous. I’m excited.

I hope this shows people that there are so many ways to step up and help—and that sometimes, the most meaningful impact starts with a personal decision to do something bold.

I’m grateful. And this is my way of giving back.”

More posts featuring Ashley Russo on OncoDaily.