Westville’s Kira Clendennen, who has a big heart for those suffering with cancer and the effects of treatment, decided to mark the first day of September (when many of us celebrate Spring Day and new beginnings) by chopping off her glorious blonde locks to be made into a wig for a cancer patient.
This is the second time the eight-year-old contributed 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 on her own for the first time three years ago (aged five), after hearing her family talk about the cause.
For thousands of South African cancer patients diagnosed each year, hair loss becomes their heart-breaking 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 take up to nine or more ponytails to turn human and synthetic hair into just one wig, depending on the texture of the hair. Thick hair, especially natural blonde hair, is most sought after for this cause.
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This year, after being steered in the direction of a lovely local hairdresser who has supported the Kindest Cut Campaign for more than a decade, Kira chose to have her hair cut by Cheryl Haddon of Chi Chi’s Hairstudio in Westville. Seeing it as a means of giving back, Cheryl treated Kira to the Rolls Royce of a salon experience, from a shampoo and conditioner wash to a head massage. Then Kira’s new little bob was lovingly shaped after more than 30cm of her hair was taken off. Kindness cut donations are collected by Robyn Briggs who then ferries the hair to CANSA in Durban.
Cheryl commended Kira for her brave donation and said it was rare for someone so young to walk through her salon doors so ready to give the gift of hair, especially after having grown it and looked after it so well for that length of time.
When asked what prompted her decision to donate her hair, Kira simply said, “I want to be kind and give my hair to someone who has lost theirs because of cancer, and I hope other people and children can do the same. It’s also just in time for summer. I can’t wait to put on my goggles without a ponytail in my way and go swimming again!”
CANSA welcomes all types of hair for donation. Although it is preferred that the ponytail be 25cm or longer, shorter hair is also acceptable as it can be used as filler-hair. Donations are accepted at their Shavathons and throughout the year at local CANSA Care Centres countrywide.
To donate your hair through Chi Chi’s Hairstudio, book an appointment on 072 407 0658.
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