This one’s for her: Why I’m cutting my hair for brain cancer research
I’ve created this page in memory of a dear friend who I recently lost to brain cancer after an incredibly brave and determined fight. She was, in some ways, one of the lucky ones. She lived with her diagnosis for far longer than many people do, showing extraordinary strength, humour and grace along the way. But brain cancer is relentless, and like so many people who love someone affected by this disease, I’ve seen its heartbreak up close.
I know her story is not unique. Brain cancer affects people of all ages and backgrounds, and the impact reaches far beyond the person diagnosed. That is why I want to turn this loss into action.
As part of this fundraiser, I will be cutting off a looooot of my hair and donating it through Sustainable Salons, where it will be passed on to wigmakers and charitable organisations to support people experiencing medical hair loss. It feels like a small but meaningful way to give back while raising funds for research that could change the future for others.
The reality is confronting:
• Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40
• Survival rates have barely changed in 35 years
• Brain cancer is the most complex cancer yet remains one of the most under-studied
• It costs more per patient than any other cancer
• In Australia, it receives less than 5% of federal government cancer research funding
I am fundraising to help change these statistics and support the vital work being done to improve survival and quality of life for people diagnosed with brain cancer.
Any contribution, big or small, will help fund innovative research and bring hope to those facing this disease. Thank you so much for your generosity and for being part of something that means a lot to me and many others.
PS - Don't forget that donations of $2 or more are tax deductible!
My Achievements
Fundraising page
Updated Profile Pic
Added a Blog Post
Received 5 Donations
Reached Goal
Increased Target
My Updates
Today's the day!
Friday 6th Mar
Well gang, chop day is finally here! Not going to lie, I’m feeling incredibly nervous. But more than that, I’m genuinely humbled by everyone’s generosity and support.
I started out thinking I might raise a couple of hundred dollars, and as of this morning we’ve passed the $3,000 mark, which is just extraordinary.
I miss Anna so much, but I hope this brings us even a little bit closer to a cure.
Share
We've raised over $2,000!
Tuesday 24th Feb
Two weeks to go!
Friday 20th Feb It is officially two weeks from the big chop and thanks to everyone's generous donations, we've already raised over $1,400!!! Share
First target almost met in under 24 hours!!!
Saturday 31st Jan
Thank you to my Sponsors
$158.25
Alexandra Commins
$150
Kimberly
$106.12
Beverley Jones
Thank you Lou for increasing awareness of this cruel disease. I'm very sorry to hear about the loss of your dear friend. You are doing a really special thing in donating your hair. I've seen first hand how having access to wigs by people who have lost their hair can give them back their dignity, confidence and a feeling of belonging in society, despite their illness. Your beautiful hair will be very much appreciated by so many.
$106.12
Rachael O’callaghan
Well done Lou , a fantastic effort for a very worthy cause ! Rachael
$106.12
Riccardo Doneli
Hair today, gone tomorrow x
$106.12
Michelle Fawcett
The sheer volume of love that you show the world is magical. You are one of a kind.
$106.12
Andrew K
$106.12
Mum And Dad
Every little helps in the fight to find a cure for this cruel and life-changing disease x
$106.12
Dawn
Amazing Lou, I know this is huge for you well done. Love you xx
$106.12
Laura J
So proud of you Lou!! Supporting such a meaningful cause is just another example of your kindness and generosity of spirit.
$106.12
Ronan Wright
$106.12
Anne Gibson
You’re a bloody legend Lou.
$100
Lana Mcmillan
Such a great cause Lou! Anna would be so proud and honoured xxx
$95.90
Heather Norman
A powerful way to make a big impact ❤️❤️❤️
$95.90
Catherine Strong
Inspiringly brave, Lou.
$90
Laith Zayadine
🤗🤗❤️ proud of you
$90
Kath Haynes
$75.14
David Watson
$75.14
Jessie Nguyen
You go Lou! You're such an amazing human being.
$70
Danielle Alexander
May the spirit of the brolga carry you into the salon xx
$70
Xingru Zhuo
$69.92
Em
Go Lou!!! 👏👏👏
$54.12
J
Here’s to Lou’s new do!
$54.12
Anonymous
sending Love!
$54.12
Josie B
$54.12
Lou Hayward
$54.12
Matthew W
$54.12
Becky & James
Such an important cause!
$54.12
Caitlin Rigolini
$54.12
Julie Ligeti
Love that you are doing this good woman ! Jules xox
$54.12
Amy Shipp
$54.12
Isabel Mcglynn
Great cause. ❤️❤️❤️
$52.92
Christian Tisdell
$52.92
Kelly-anne Packer
Well done lovely. Very proud of you - as always!
$33.15
Ratna Cowpar
New look, same amazing heart! ♥️
$33.15
Anastasia T
This is amazing Lou!
$33.15
Laura
Go you good thing xx
$33.15
Rebbecca Stewart
You're an inspiration Lou
$33.15
Anonymous
Go you good thing!
$33.15
Sam Shames
$33.15
Anonymous
You’re the best.
$33.15
Sunshine Makarow
$33.15
Joel Pearson
$33.15
Claire
Bruv, what an amazing thing to do! Also you look well fit with a bob, who knew?! Love youuuuu x
$33.15
Cara
Go Lou! Off to a high top year ;) such a great cause and you’ll look gorgeous with your new chop chop! Xx
$33.15
Michael Apte
I have excelled at follicle reduction, wishing you less enduring success on that front.
$30
Julie-anne
Very proud of you Lou. You are Amazing!!
$30
Sherry S
Go Lou!!!
$30
Adam Gillin
$22.58
Greg
Great effort Lou.
$22.58
Candice Wolfe
You’re magnificent xx
$22.58
Meg O’neill
Great work Lou! I’m sorry for the lose of your dear friend, what a beautiful way to honour her life x
$22.58
Peta
Good for you, Lou! I hope you smash the next goal and these funds help smash brain cancer!
$22.58
Fin
$20
Eda Zhou
$20
Andrew Wilesmith
Lovely cause! Good luck!
$11.65
Leonie
Best of luck raising funds Lou. I'm so sorry for your loss.
You’re a beautiful angel and a very very brave one too. Xxx