Thanks for supporting my fundraising. 

At the end of August, I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. September has been a whirlwind of tests and agonising waiting for results but I am pleased to be starting my treatment in October and will lose my long hair shortly after. 

For me, losing my hair is a symbol of the amazing treatment plan the NHS have put together for me to give me the best chance of living a long, healthy and happy life. I am a 'long hair' person and losing it will be traumatic, but it feels like a small price to pay.

I understand that losing your hair will be a huge shock for some people, and I think especially for girls and young women. I have decided to donate my (very) long hair to the Little Princess Trust, a charity who make wigs for young people going through cancer treatment and hair loss. I hope that my hair will make someone feel a bit more like themselves at such a difficult time. You can read more about the work they do here: www.littleprincesses.org.uk 

In order for me to donate my hair in its best condition, I have decided to cut it off ahead of treatment and then go full buzz cut, ahead of the inevitable hair loss.

To make this more of a challenge, I'll post before, during and after photos here. For those that know me well, you will know that posting pictures of myself online at the best of times is not something I do, so this challenge is outside my comfort zone.  

I hope that people would like to help me donate money to MacMillan Cancer Support, who do an amazing job supporting people like me. The MacMillan nurses are one of the first people you talk to following diagnosis, and a dedicated team are there for you whenever you need them. I'll always remember my own nurse giving me the confirmation of having a 'wee cancer' over the phone and helping me process the information as well as giving me a clear picture of what will happen next. During this Covid time, taking my husband to appointments has not been possible, and having a friendly face for support has been invaluable.

From MacMillan Cancer Support: 

Macmillan Cancer Support is here to help everyone with cancer live life as fully as they can, providing physical, financial and emotional support. So whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right right there with you. 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them 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.