Chop in the name of love

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!