Toukley’s Isla Cameron is taking part in the World’s Greatest Shave for the Leukaemia Foundation on 12 March.
The 10-year-old has committed to shaving off her locks at an event at Toukley Golf Club from 4pm.
Isla, a student at St Mary’s, says that the work undertaken by the Leukaemia Foundation is close to her heart as her grandmother was diagnosed with the illness four years ago.
“I’ve raised $2,640 so far, mostly via Facebook, but we’ll also be selling raffle tickets and holding a sausage sizzle on the day.
“My hair is just past my shoulders … my Dad is the one who will be shaving it off,” she said.
50 Australians are diagnosed with blood cancer such as leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma each day.
By 2035, that number is expected to double to 100 people each day.
Blood cancer can develop in anyone and at any age from children to adolescents, young adults to working adults with families and older Australians.
There are currently no screening programs available for blood cancers and there is no way to prevent blood cancer through lifestyle change.
Leukaemia Foundation CEO, Mr Chris Tanti said with the incidence of blood cancer continuing to grow, we cannot afford to sit by and allow this cancer to increasingly wreak havoc on families across Australia.
“There has never been a more vital time to get behind World’s Greatest Shave and raise much-needed funds to support Australians impacted by blood cancer.
“By signing up, you are ensuring blood cancer patients have access to the right information, support and care they need to fight the disease as well as someone to turn to every step of the way,” Tanti said.
You can donate to Isla by accessing: www.worldsgreatestshave.com/donate
Nicola Riches