Churchie fundraising a big cut above previous World’s Greatest Shave records
Local
The Churchie community recently set a new fundraising record for the World’s Greatest Shave, raising over $130,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation and drawing the school’s greatest number of student participants. One of these students, Prefect Henry, was inspired by personal experience to motivate the school community to make a significant contribution to the cause
The World’s Greatest Shave is an annual event where participants shave, cut or colour their hair to raise funds for blood cancer research and support services.
According to the Leukaemia Foundation, around 140,000 families are currently facing blood cancer, which takes the lives of 16 Australians every day.
For Churchie Prefect Henry, it’s a cause that has a deeply personal connection to his own family.
“I’m participating in the World’s Greatest Shave for the second time this year in honour of my dad, Louis, who passed away suddenly from cancer six years ago,” Henry said.
“This cause is something I hold very close to my heart and is something I am immensely passionate about making a difference for.”
According to the Leukemia Foundation, blood cancer is set to become the nation’s most common and deadly type of cancer.
There is no prevention and screening for blood cancer.
Awareness is particularly low, with Leukaemia Foundation CEO Mr Chris Tanti saying that Australians are largely unaware of blood cancer symptoms.
“This latest research proves Australians are dangerously in the dark when it comes to knowing the signs and symptoms of blood cancer,” Mr Tanti said.
“Without knowing the signs and symptoms, people may not visit their GP or seek help early, leaving them at risk of a delayed diagnosis and treatment.
“Every second counts when it comes to a disease like blood cancer, and even the slightest delay in accessing lifesaving treatment could impact someone’s chances of survival.”
Through the Churchie community’s collective efforts, this initiative has made a real impact in the fight against blood cancer — in raising both funds and awareness.
A few weeks before Churchie’s main shave event, a lunchtime launch was held to generate enthusiasm and inspire students to participate and donate.
At the launch, Henry and School Captain George were joined by Deputy Head of Senior School for Years 10 to 12 Mr Josh Di Bella and Head of Year 7 Mr Joe Hodges in having their heads shaved, with the support of Director of Service Mr Clayton Kelly.
“The collective enthusiasm of the crowd made the event special for all of us,” Henry said.
“The emcee, Mr Clayton Kelly, whipped the crowd into a fundraising fervour — so much so that Mr Di Bella gathered enough pledges to go a full number-one hair length!”
On the day of the main event in May, more than 100 students and staff members participated by shaving their heads in solidarity with those affected by cancer, while hundreds in the audience cheered on their peers braving the shave.
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