Cut-a-Thon to benefit wounded soldier

Mango's Bar and Grill and Eric & Company Premier Salon have partnered to host a Cut-A-Thon to benefit Staff Sgt. Christopher Walker of Altavista, a 28-year-old soldier who was severely injured by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan.

Walker lost both arms near the elbow, as well as his left leg, in the April 24 explosion. He is receiving medical care at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.

Despite his injuries, Walker said his medical progress has been significant. His milestones include learning to cook and gaining the ability to walk for short periods of time through the use of prosthetic limbs.

"I came from being drugged up and not doing anything to being able to get around," he said.

Proceeds from the Cut-A-Thon will help offset the costs associated with his injuries.

"Right now, every little bit helps," said Walker. "When I get out of here, everything I use will need to be adapted."

The Cut-A-Thon will be held Aug. 19 from 1 until 4 p.m. at Mango's Bar and Grill at Bridgewater Plaza and will offer haircuts for donations only. There will be up to 10 stylists available, including Walker's cousin, Victoria Little. There will be no blowdryers or curling irons at the event, said Sarah Bartels of Eric & Company.

In addition to door prizes, a 50/50 raffle will be conducted. Raffle tickets will be sold for $1 each or six tickets for $5. The winner will gain half of the ticket sales, and the other half will be donated to Walker.

"We always think of ways to help our community," said Bartels. "My husband's in the military, and we have a very big soft spot for the military."

Walker's aunt, Sheila Little of Altavista, is an organizer of the event.

"[Christopher] is doing much better than doctors expected him to do," she said. "He's just amazing, the grit that he has."

Walker's medical progress can be monitored through his Facebook page at facebook.com/StaffSgtChristopherWalkerPage. Donations can be mailed to the Christopher Walker Fund, P.O. Box 29, Altavista, VA. 24517