It seems that there is always some cause or another asking for monetary support, which can leave you overwhelmed and unsure which one to give your hard-earned money to.
But, if there is one cause that will always receive support from me (in some form or another) it is the Cancer Association of South Africa’s (CANSA) annual Shavathon – not only a good cause, but a lot of fun to participate in as well!
Where else can you get a haircut, or have your hair sprayed in funky yellow, green, pink, blue and orange, for a small donation of only R50? This year, the editors and journalists of the Caxton West Joburg branch decided that we wanted to make our voices heard (and show our true colours!), so we arranged for a representative from CANSA West Rand to visit our office, for an impromptu Shavathon of our own.
Oh what fun we had! Even though we only had one brave enough to have some hair shaved off, the rest of us had some fun choosing the brightest and boldest colours to show we care. (Read more about it in this week’s edition). (Sonette/Michelle: For the web version of the note, please insert the article link, if possible?)
You might ask yourself, “But, what difference might this gesture make? It will not cure someone with cancer if you spray or shave your hair.” And, to be honest, this is probably true, but, my question is, “Why not do it to show support?” It might not bring about a miracle cure, but, for that one day (and the time it takes for your hair to grow back) you will be able to show someone who has either won the battle against cancer, or someone who has lost a loved one to this disease, that you care.
For me, showing support is quite personal. Yes, I may not have had to say goodbye to a family member or had to support a loved one going through this battle, but, through my journey as a community journalist, I came to know two very brave girls battling with this disease, and it is because of them, that I will always show my bright and bold support.
For Zannerique Toerien, who lost her battle at only eight years old, it will be to honour her memory, and for the 19-year-old Clarece Scholtz, who is battling leukaemia on a daily basis, it is to show how much respect I have for her, for never backing down and refusing to give up the fight, no matter the odds.
For those of you who are still unsure about this good cause, I can only say, “Do it! It is for a good cause!”
If you participated in any of the Shavathons that took place at the various malls this past weekend, send your photos and reasons why you did it to roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za/ northside@caxton.co.za.
Until next week …
