Boy grows hair for years to raise money in brother’s memory

March 21 marks World Down Syndrome Day, a day to explain how people with Down syndrome can make meaningful contributions throughout their lives. The statement couldn’t be more true for a young Saskatoon boy whose short life continues to make a difference, even after his passing.

Andrew Gallen, born with Down syndrome at 37 weeks gestation, lived eight days and was cared for in the neonatal intensive care unit at Royal University Hospital (RUH).

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On World Down Syndrome Day, his family flips through a short album of his limited days.

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“Every year on his birthday we try to mark that, mark the eight days that he was alive by doing various random acts of kindness,” explained his Mom, Bonnie Gallen.

This year on April 27, Andrew’s fifth birthday, his older brother Henry will honour him in a big way.

“I’m growing it out so long,” said Henry, smoothing his hair.

The seven-year-old has been growing his golden locks for three years.

“At first I thought to do a Padawan braid but now I changed my mind and I want to cut it for my brother,” Henry said.

What started as a nod to Star Wars, has morphed into a tribute to Andrew.

“I will do it in honour of his life.”

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Henry’s golden locks that matched his younger brother’s, will be chopped off on Andrew’s birthday. He plans to donate his hair to wigs for kids.

Simultaneously, Henry is raising money through a GoFundMe page as a way of garnering support and encouragement to take the plunge.

Funds raised will be divvied up between the neonatal intensive care unit at RUH where Andrew spent his short life, and the Ability in Me (AIM) program which works with kids with Down syndrome, helping them reach their potential.

“We’re pretty proud of him. He’s been growing his hair for quite a long time and is pretty attached to it I think,” Bonnie said.

“We thought it would be a good learning opportunity for Henry just to see what it means to give of yourself and what charity means in the community,” said Andrew’s dad, David.

The $1,000 goal was reached in the first day and will be matched by the family. Everything over and above that only proves Andrew’s short life had a meaningful and lasting impact.

“That’s my goal,” Henry said.