In May 2014, large parts of Bosnia & Herzegovina were devastated by severe flooding and landslides.  A quarter of the country was left without clean water, thousands were evacuated from their homes, many of which have been completely destroyed. The economy of whole towns has been destroyed, and many schools and government buildings have been completely wrecked. Two months on, there are still a huge number of people suffering, and clean up efforts have only just scratched the surface of people restoring to lives to "normal" standards they had before the floods. Many towns still do not have access to clean drinking water.  As families consider if they are able to rebuild their homes, the greatest need currently is building materials as so many homes have just been left with the bare structure. Unfortunately, the strife caused by this natural disaster has long been forgotten by the media.  Perhaps what makes this disaster even more devastating is this is the second time in recent history many people in these regions have lost so much.  

Having visited two towns, Doboj and Maglaj, both devastated by floods, I would like to do my part to raise money towards relief efforts and helping families rebuild their lives.  If I am able to raise at least £1,000 (€1,265) I will shave my head.  When I have told some people I want to do this, many people have reacted in shock, exclaiming "but you have such beautiful hair!!".  To which I respond, "but it's only hair - it will grow!"  So many people have lost absolutely everything, I feel like this is just something small I can do to help raise so many for those who are struggling.  I know the regrowth stage might be awkward, but I feel that it will help me remember to pray for those who have been affected each time I look in the mirror, cringe and think "what have I done?!" 

Please consider if you could donate any amount to the relief efforts and encourage me to get rid of my hair!!  Novi Most is the organisation I work with here in Bosnia & Herzegovina, and all money collected via this campaign will be directed to our flood relief efforts, in partnership with the Evangelical Church here. 

If anyone else would like to join me in shaving their head and raising money for this cause, you are more than welcome!