Students shaving for a cancer cure

Four brave Berrigan Public School students will be enjoying their long locks as much as possible.Justin Milne, Ryan Thornton, Jason Yeo and Lachie O’Dwyer will shave their heads as part of the World’s Greatest Shave for the Leukaemia Foundation on Friday, September 27.The shaving team is led by Justin who has a very impressive mullet hair style that he has been growing and cultivating for nearly two years.After many requests from his teacher Mrs Phillips, Justin has decided to part with his mullet for such a good cause.‘‘It is a good feeling to do something that helps other people who are sick,’’ Justin said.The boys have been busy seeking sponsors and have so far already exceeded their fundraising goal and have reset it, aiming to raise more than $2000.The shaving event will be held on the last day of this term, Friday September 27 at 12 noon in the school hall.School parent and Berrigan hair dresser Jo Dowsett has volunteered to shave the students’ heads.Money raised by the boys will go to families facing blood cancer, providing the emotional and practical support they need.Donations will also being contributing to funds used for vital research to help more people survive blood cancers, while improving their quality of life.Every day another 35 Australians are diagnosed with a blood cancer, one Aussie every 41 minutes. These four brave students are hoping to do their part for the cause and are facing the clippers to show it.Leukaemia Foundation CEO Bill Petch said support from schools and their students was integral to helping fund a future where blood cancer is no longer a death sentence in Australia. ‘‘These students are extraordinary young Australians who are helping others less fortunate than themselves, while often making the sacrifice to lose their beloved locks. It shows enormous bravery, resilience and empathy to shave their heads in support of someone living with a blood cancer,’’ Mr Petch said. ‘‘Schools are enormous supporters of World’s Greatest Shave in Australia and we thank all of the teachers, parents and students who support the campaign every year.’’The sponsorship link is found on the school’s facebook page or you can access it at http://my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/bugsysquad.