FOR the past 10 years people from all walks of life have been getting involved in showing solidarity and support for cancer survivors by shaving, spraying or donating their ponytails for the annual CANSA Shavathon.
Now in its 11th year, the CANSA Shavathon looks to be its biggest yet. Corporates, schools and organisations will have the opportunity to host their own Shavathon between 24 to 28 February. There will also be CANSA Shavathon events taking place at shopping centres across the country on Saturday 1 March, where the cost to shave, spray or donate a ponytail is R50 for adults, and R25 for children under 12 years old.
By shaving or spraying hair, it’s almost a sign of solidarity – showing support and visual empathy for a cancer survivor. In addition to the options of shaving or spraying your hair, you can also purchase a CANSA Wrap for R50 per wrap. Shavathon goers can also donate their ponytail at the CANSA Shavathon’s across the country. These ponytail donations are handmade into wigs for cancer patients who have lost their hair as a result of their cancer treatment. To donate a ponytail, hair must be at least 22cm in length, and must be clean and dry.
With the ‘spray’ option at CANSA Shavathon’s across the country, people will also have the option to have cool designs sprayed onto their hair. The spray used is made from vegetable dye and is safe to use. It lasts only a day and washes out easily.
“All money raised at CANSA Shavathon’s around the country goes towards funding the care and support programmes that CANSA offers, mainly rendered at our Care Centres. People don’t realise just how valuable a contribution their donation made at each CANSA Shavathon is – it mainly helps to support cancer patients who need it the most” said CANSA’s CEO, Sue Janse van Rensburg.
Join in on the CANSA Shavathon and shave, spray or donate your ponytail at a shopping centre near you on Saturday 1 March. Any company, school, individual or organisation that is keen to get involved and host their own Shavathon between 24 to 28 February 2014, will find step by step instructions on https://www.shavathon.org.za.
After you have had your colourful fun, take a selfie and post it on your Facebook, Twitter and Instagram with the hashtag #selfieforshavathon.
Visit these centres to take part in the CANSA Shavathon: The Pavilion Shopping Centre, Westwood Mall, the Hillcrest Corner, Pinecrest Centre, Westville Mall and the Varsity College Westville campus.
