Residents lose their hair for cancer

Hundreds of residents flocked to Ferryvale Shopping Centre on February 28, to pledge and show their solidarity at the annual CANSA Shavathon event.
Hosted by the Cancer Association of South Africa and Ferryvale Spar, this year’s event proved to be a cut above the rest, accumulating thousands of rands which will go towards a worthy cause.
Dubbed as South Africa’s best fundraising initiative, the 2015 initiative hosted at the centre saw a total of R5 950 raised.
Losing your hair is a common side-effect and shaving your head has become a symbolic gesture of support for survivors and those undergoing treatment.
Antonet Swartz, with long hair had her pony tail cut off and donated it to make a wig for someone who needed it more than she did.
Antoinette Stein (44) who lost her mother to cancer when she was 17 years old, showed her support towards the cause when she shaved her hair for the fourth consecutive year.
“During this journey of losing my mother to cancer, I decided that I will not let the disease and death make me anxious, but active. I chose to find happiness and spread love – love that my mother gave me”, Antoinette shared.
Kent Erasmus (24) lost his grandfather in 2014 and showed his support to families who still face the sad realities of the disease through donating R50 and colouring his hair.
“Losing my grandfather was the most difficult challenge I have faced in my life and I made a decision to show my support to those affected by cancer, to offer a glimmer of hope, an ounce of empathy and the simple recognition that we’re all in the fight together”, Kent said.
Laughter and smiles mingled with sadness as people shared stories of bravery and courage.
Ferryvale Spar manager André Botha, who was delighted with the attendance at this year’s event, said the annual Shavathon event is one that allows them to take time off their schedules and pay tribute to cancer patients and survivors.
“It is a day set aside for us to solely honour them. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported this year’s cause and eagerly look forward to our sixth Shavathon in 2016”, André said.
Sharing the same emotions as André, was Melissa Taljaard who offered her services as a hairdresser at the event. She said that the event was a resounding success and will continue to support the cause for the sixth consecutive year in 2016.