Lopping those locks for a good cause

COURAGEOUS: First time participant Andy Savage (left) and Jerry Pickford face the clippers outside Farmers on Thursday last week.

Michael Andrews bravely had his long locks shaved off last week in recognition of his "angel Alice", a young girl who passed away from immuno-deficiency at the age of 9.

Travelling from Taihape, Mr Andrews was part of more than 20 participants who took part in Shave 4 a Cure which raises awareness of those suffering from leukaemia and blood cancer.

"I was so touched by this girl and I wanted to do something. She was wise beyond her years and she really impacted my life."

The Palmerston North event was staged outside Farmers in The Plaza who had many staff face the clippers, including beauty manager Michelle Finlay. She had only decided that morning to take part in recognition of her brother-in-law who passed away last year.

"Our family was left devastated -- it would be his anniversary today. He had bladder cancer and it was quick and aggressive."

Jerry Pickford, who has taken part in the campaign for the past five years, was brave enough to lose his six-month-old beard as well as his hair.

"This year I am doing it for one of the members in my rugby club who has leukaemia. I don't mind losing my beard or hair ... it's a great cause."

Rodney Wayne's hairdressers were on-site to provide the haircuts while a small crowd gathered to cheer on those taking part. The week-long campaign, ending on April 7, has so far raised more than $750,000 across New Zealand. Farmers, who held 21 events throughout the country, is among the top ten businesses having collected more than $74,000 for the charity.

Approximately six New Zealanders are diagnosed with blood cancer every day. Funds raised from these events will go towards supplying patients and their families with information, vouchers, counselling and support groups.

If you, or someone you know, needs to be receiving support from Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand's patient services, please contact their toll free number on 0800 15 10 15.