Fourways High School hosted a shavathon on March 17 to help raise funds for Cansa.
According to the Cansa website, the shavathon is ‘one of South Africa’s best-loved events in support of a very worthy cause, namely showing solidarity with those affected by cancer’.
Every year different sectors of society host the event to raise funds for cancer research, support and public education about the disease.
Learners played their part by shaving or colouring their hair in solidarity with people who live with cancer and those affected by it. Losing hair is one of the most common side effects of cancer treatment, so shaving one’s head has become a symbolic gesture of support for those living with the disease.
The school promoted the event on the school’s Facebook page and sold tokens and the proceeds will be donated to the organisation.
Learner and student representative, Oregomoditse Mahlobo spoke about the significance of the shavathon at the school. “We do it for cancer awareness. But it’s also cool to see people buying tokens and shaving their heads. It adds to the fun of being in school.”
Lexi Katsivalis, a teacher at Fourways high, added, “I think a lot of the pupils understand what this day means, but of course some of them think it’s a fun day. But you can see by the kids who’ve shaved their heads that there is obviously some significance to this day for them.”
Katsivalis was part of the organising team at the school. “We are growing well-rounded and conscientious children, who are willing to donate money to a good cause.”
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