Show solidarity with cancer patients at Shavathon
FOR the past 10 years people from all walks of life have been getting involved in showing solidarity and support for cancer survivors by shaving, spraying or donating their ponytails in the annual Cansa Shavathon.
Now in its 11th year, the Cansa Shavathon on Saturday, 1 March looks to be its biggest yet.
Corporates, schools and organisations have an opportunity to host their own shavathons between 24 and 28 February. Cansa Shavathon events will also take place at shopping centres across the country on Saturday, 1 March. The cost to shave, spray, or donate a ponytail is R50 for adults, and R25 for children under 12-years-old.
What is the relevance of using shaving and spraying as a means of support for the Cansa Shavathon? When undergoing cancer treatment, a common side-effect is hair loss.
By shaving or spraying hair, it’s almost a sign of solidarity, showing support and visual empathy for a cancer survivor.
In addition to shaving or spraying their hair, people can buy a wrap for their hair at a cost of R50 each.They can also donate their ponytails, which are handmade into wigs for cancer patients who have lost their hair due to treatment. Great pride is taken in making the wigs. In cases of special requests, cancer patients are asked for photos of what their original hair looked like, to ensure the wig is as close to their natural look as possible. Wigs are available at all Cansa care centres and are provided at no cost to the public. To donate a ponytail, hair must be at least 22cm in length, and must be clean and dry.
People also have the option to have cool designs sprayed onto their hair. The spray is made from vegetable dye, is safe, lasts only a day and washes out easily.
“Money raised at shavathons goes towards funding the care and support programmes rendered at Cansa care centres. People don’t realise how valuable a contribution their donation makes at each shavathon. It mainly helps to support cancer patients who need it the most,” Cansa CEO, Sue Janse van Rensburg.
The care centres and care clinics focus on comprehensive care for cancer survivors, caregivers and their loved ones. It also includes individual counselling, support groups, specialist care of wounds, complications and provision of medical equipment.
The care programmes are structured to provide practical solutions to common problems people face when diagnosed.The care homes accommodate patients from out-of-town who are undergoing treatment and receive free transportation to and from the treatment centres as well as nutritious meals. Cansa also provides wigs, medical supplies and devices to ensure patients have what they need to physically cope better with their diagnosis.
Tough Living with cancer Lodges provide accommodation for parents of children undergoing treatment, meals and support.
For more details go to: www.shavathon.org.za, www.cansa.org.za, Facebook: www.facebook.com/CancerAssociationOfSouthAfrica or Twitter: www.twitter.com/CANSA
