A colour of hope at Cansa’s annual Shavathon

Shavathon events take place at shopping centres across the country on Saturday, March 2, with a few venues offering events on Sunday, March 3.

It’s almost time for the Cancer Association of South Africa’s (Cansa) 16th national Shavathon campaign with the theme ‘Colouring Hope’.

Maria Scholtz, Cansa’s Head of Sustainability, said the Shavathon started as a way to show solidarity or support for cancer patients, as losing hair is a common side effect of cancer therapy.

“Participants show support by donating a fee to shave or spray their hair. The donation is used by Cansa to provide a care and support service to the public and all people affected by cancer,” said Scholtz.

“While the words ‘colouring’ and ‘hope’ might not be top of mind when thinking of cancer, Cansa emphasises that a diagnosis is no longer a death sentence.

“More people are living beyond cancer, and they need a public show of support to encourage them to keep fighting and adapting to living with the side effects of treatment.”

Adults pay R50 and children u-12 R25 to participate.

Funds received go towards Cansa’s care and support programmes for patients, caregivers and loved ones

“We hope everyone will join us in showing those affected by cancer that they are not alone.

“Participating provides an opportunity for everyone to be involved in Colouring Hope, by spraying or stencilling their hair, or shaving their head, or donating a ponytail to make a wig.

“Selfie boards are also available to share the fun and action with others while creating awareness of cancer and the need to support cancer survivors (patients).”

She said an exciting addition this year is a children’s colouring book and crayons for sale at R25 each for the younger participants promoting cancer smart messages.

A limited edition ‘Colouring Hope’ Cansa wraps (bandana) is also available at R50 for people to purchase and wear in support of cancer survivors.

Hosting

To host an event, register and order Shavathon products through the Shavathon eShop at https://www.shavathon.org.za/how-to-organise-your-own-shavathon-event/

Scholtz said anyone can host an event, it is not limited to workplaces, organisations or schools.

The deadline for registration and orders is Tuesday, February 22.

An early bird discount applies if orders are placed by Friday, February 1. Hosts’ events will take place March 4 to 8.

Participants are also invited to open an online fundraising page before Shavathon events and to invite their contacts to support the action they will take on behalf of cancer Survivors on the day, by making a donation.

More details available on the Shavathon website at https://www.shavathon.org.za/participating-shopping-centres/