Cutting Toward The Cause

Cutting hair is her passion. Working toward a cure for cancer is her mission.

Julia Schena, owner of Salon Mulan, 2401 Bridge Ave., Point Pleasant Borough, combined the two, when she scheduled a recent cut-a-thon at her salon.

Offering haircuts at just $25, drastically reduced from the prices normally charged, the salon’s stylists provided their services for free.

All proceeds went to the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life Point Pleasant event, to be held June 11 and 12, in Community Park.

The entire staff will be participating in the relay as members of the Salon Mulan Point Pleasant team.

Schena, a borough resident, opened the salon seven years ago. Her interest in aiding cancer patients was triggered when a client undergoing cancer treatment requested she assist him in selecting a wig.

“I saw what people go through to try to feel good about their appearance, when dealing with the devastating effects of cancer treatment. I believe that looking good helps people feel good, and that feeling good is an essential component in fighting this disease,” Schena said.

Schena’s mother successfully battled breast cancer almost 20 years ago.

Point Pleasant Borough residents Deanne and John Tornquist came out for the event. Deanne is one of Schena’s regular clients, but her husband is not.

“I wasn’t planning on getting my hair cut today, but I thought ‘what better time than now’ to support the cause,” said John, as he sat in Schena’s chair.

Cassie Arnone and her mother, Celeste Chapoutot, both of Point Pleasant Borough, also got haircuts. Stylist Deanna Labrutto worked on Arnone, while Schena styled Chapoutot’s hair.

Chapoutot became a regular client after she attended the salon’s first cut-a-thon, last April. She owns Health Resources Unlimited, a company that provides post-mastectomy and Lymphedema products and support. Lymphedema is a possible side effect of cancer treatment.

Eleven-year-old Kyle Daley also showed his support for the team. The borough resident is the son of stylist Mary Hazelet. He created  “Pink Ribbon” jewelry boxes to sell at the event, and raised $35.

While the salon was able to raise $465, turn-out was less than expected based on the overwhelming success of last year’s event.

“Last year, people packed the salon, waiting for the next available stylist,” Schena said.

The salon will hold another cut-a-thon in May in hopes of procuring more funds for the Salon Mulan Relay for Life team.

Donations to the Salon Mulan Relay for Life team can be made at the salon or online at www.relayforlife.org/pointboronj. Enter “Salon Mulan Point Pleasant” when searching for the team.