Westville’s Kira cuts her hair for CANSA
The number of wigs CANSA distributes through wig banks each year is dependent on the number of donations received, as it can cost up to R2 000 to turn human and synthetic hair into just one wig.
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IN an act of kindness, Westville’s Kira Clendennen decided to go the extra mile and cut her hair for a really special cause.
Aged five, with a sixth birthday around the corner, Kira wanted to contribute a pony tail to CANSA’s Kindest Cut Campaign, where hair is used to make wigs for cancer patients and survivors. It’s a decision she made all on her own, after hearing her family talk about the cause.
For thousands of South African cancer patients diagnosed each year, hair loss becomes their heartbreaking reality. CANSA relies on both human-hair donations, as well as financial contributions, to help restore dignity and a sense of self-worth to those who have lost their hair during cancer treatment.
The number of wigs CANSA distributes through wig banks each year is dependent on the number of donations received, as it can cost up to R2 000 to turn human and synthetic hair into just one wig.
Also read: Prepare for a healthier lifestyle with CANSA cookbook
Here in Durban, the wigs are made by Janine Prinsloo from Foxy’s Hair And Beauty who has been cutting hair for more than two decades, and got involved with CANSA, a cause close to her heart, almost three years ago. Aside from running her own salon at Musgrave Methodist Church, Janine operates from her salon at CANSA’s Durban office in Umbilo Road, once a week where she volunteers her time.
Janine said it can take around two days to make a wig, and anywhere up to nine or more ponytails to make that wig, depending on the texture of the hair. Thick hair, especially natural blonde hair, is most sought after for this cause.
She commended Kira for her brave donation on Friday, 5 April, and said she was one of the youngest donors who walked through her salon doors so ready to give the gift of hair.
When asked what prompted her decision to donate her hair, Kira simply said “I woke up and knew I wanted to cut my hair for the people who have cancer and have lost their own hair so that they can feel beautiful and happy.”
Anyone interested in making a donation of hair to make a wig for someone suffering from cancer can see Janine at Foxy’s at Musgrave Methodist Church or at CANSA on Tuesdays.
Remember, a little goes a long way.
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