Hair donated to Cansa 60 years after being cut

Annatjie van Niekerk, a local cat whisperer, and rescuer, gives back to the community by doing more than simply looking after stray cats; in addition, she has donated her hair to the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa).

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“When I was 18 years old, in 1962, I had my hair cut short with the idea of giving the locks to Cansa to make a wig out of,” elaborated Annatjie.

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She went on to explain that life got in the way and the auburn locks were stored in a box until she had the opportunity to donate them. Sixty years later, Annatjie was inspired by Krugersdorp News journalist Natasha Pretorius’ cancer survival story and decided to donate her hair in tribute to Natasha’s perseverance.

“Natasha has written a beautiful article on my involvement with the homeless cats at Cradlestone Mall. Just recently I rescued nine kittens from one of the shopping centre’s storerooms,” added Annatjie.

She hopes to bring joy to someone battling cancer and hopes by doing so she can encourage other community members to donate to Cansa.