Local residents extend sisterhood of cancer support

TWO Cycle Specialists Club members, Charlene Donald and Wendy Buckley recently shaved their heads to show solidarity with women fighting cancer.

The duo were planning on cycling through Hillcrest last month as part of a fundraising cycle for the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), however, heavy rains led to the event’s cancellation. Despite the cancellation, the duo said their hope was to raise cancer awareness and funds for CANSA.

“I had shaved my head once before in 2012 and at the time it was in support of my friend who lost her mother to cancer. The only thing I felt I could do at the time to symbolise the solidarity with her was shaving my head. So when Wendy suggested that we do it this time around, the fear of losing my hair wasn’t there and it was easy an decision to make.

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“Part of the ride’s message and our message was we wanted to say as women we stand together in this fight against cancer. I felt the message really resonated for me and other cycling sisters showing our support for every single cancer warrior. We were disappointed when the rain led to the ride cancellation but it will be rescheduled. Our hope is to get other women from various cycling clubs and non-cyclists involved to build a sisterhood around a cause that’s close to us,” she said.

For Buckley, who has two young daughters, being involved in the fundraiser has also meant spreading the message as far as possible.

“I think you realise how important organisations like CANSA are and what they do for survivors and families of those affected by cancer. I have two young daughters so I want them to also take note and spread the word to their friends on why annual checks are necessary. Shaving my hair off was incredibly freeing and because hair is such a large part of your identity this really hammered home the message of showing solidarity with cancer warriors. We are hoping to still complete a ride this year and get as many women involved as possible,” she said.  

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