Over the course of the last year, we’ve all felt lonely at some point or another. People with cancer experience this loneliness even while the rest of us are free to go to school, or go to work, or spend time with our friends. I know, because my brother Bradley has faced cancer - twice. Before I get into Brad’s story, and my story, and the whole point of this, I want to say a quick thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. Even if you don’t donate, it means a lot if you can share it with your friends and family!

Cancer touched my family because my brother, Brad, faced a rare Leukaemia diagnosis at nineteen, and again at twenty-four. After the second time, he needed my bone marrow to survive – and I offered to be his donor. Through my brother’s experiences, I’ve seen up close and personal the challenges that people with cancer face. After a tough year for charities, I want to step up and support two incredible causes. 

I have now been growing my hair for almost 5 years - with the aim of donating it to The Little Princess Trust. I’ve got to say, I have grown attached to my long locks but the time has finally come! The Little Princess Trust provides high quality, real human hair wigs for anyone who has lost their hair as a result of cancer treatment up to the age of 24. It’s easy to imagine how isolating it must feel to be a young person losing their hair on top of facing a cancer diagnosis and gruelling treatment. The Little Princess Trust are most in need of hair over 16 inches long and I should be able to donate a whopping 22 inches (56cm) from my barnet - without ending up with a skinhead! 

I’m donating my hair to The Little Princess Trust. But I’m asking you to donate to Alike, a brand new charity. Inspired by his own experience, my brother has created a charity that provides a dedicated peer support app for everyone over the age of 18 with a cancer diagnosis. It truly is an awesome cause, helping to combat the loneliness and isolation caused by cancer by providing game-changing peer support opportunities. If you don't already know the story of Alike, please follow the link below. Oh, and Alike and The Little Princess Trust are also partners! 

The big chop will be happening on the 27th May and I have set an ambitious goal of raising £500 for Alike. Please dig deep and pay it forward, it's all going to an amazing cause which is already helping so many young people suffering with cancer. 

Thank you!

Lewis

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.