The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) will be hosting its 14th annual Cansa Shavathon campaign, beginning on 25 and 26 February at selected venues such as shopping malls.
From 27 February to 3 March, the Shavathon will take place at various workplaces.
“The Shavathon provides the opportunity to give back, by raising funds for cancer patient care and support programmes through shaving or spraying, or by making a hair donation for wigs and to show solidarity with those battling cancer, or whose loved ones are fighting cancer. It’s also a time to remember and honour those who have lost the battle,” said Maria Scholtz, Cansa’s Head of Sustainability.
The Shavathon is not just something supporters do to raise money, it lifts survivors’ morale and makes the fight easier knowing there is solidarity.
“Away with hair, away with cancer,” was what 33-year-old Shaun Terblanche, the CANSA Global Hero of Hope had to say about the Shavathon.
“We don’t need a reason to help others. It’s the selfless acts we do that make us rise when helping others. The Cansa Shavathon has shown me the spirit of Ubuntu and the beauty of selfless acts,” said 26-year-old Nikki Beboni, who is a skin cancer survivor said.
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) will once again join forces with the Shavathon at selected venues so that the public can make a blood donation, and shave for cancer. Blood donations are often used for cancer patients undergoing treatment.
“This year I donated my ponytail for a wig – over 30cms was cut off. I got my mum to do the same and this wasn’t our first time. I will do it over and over, knowing that this is something awesome. I would rather donate it to this amazing cause than to any other organisation,” said Kirshua Ramsammy after donating her hair.
Be like Kirshua and donate, or just shave your hair this Shavathon.
Remember to share your Shavathon photos on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and to use the #CANSAshavathon hash tag.
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