Each year, Canberra Grammar School Year 12 students participate in the Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave. This year, despite having to complete the shave at home, students feel that it is more important than ever to support those in need and to show solidarity.
We spoke to some of the Year 12 students participating in this year’s World’s Greatest Shave and asked them why the event was important to them.
Last year, roughly 60 students shave or cut their hair, raising over $40,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation. This year, the students have set a more conservative goal, but we hope our community – where possible – will support the student-led fundraiser. You can make a donation to ‘CGS 2020’ at the Leukaemia Foundation website.
‘The reason I am shaving is that leukaemia is one of the biggers killers in Australia and one Australian is diagnosed every 41 minutes. Raising awareness about this helps exponentially to those finding a cure and most importantly those struggling with leukaemia.’ ~ William P
‘I have decided to shave my head in support of the Leukaemia Foundation as it is a fantastic opportunity to raise money and funds for such an important cause. Cancer of all types affects so many people around the world, and without a doubt, everyone knows someone or knows someone who knows someone that has experienced a battle with cancer. I love my hair, but so do others that don’t have a choice as to whether they lose it or not. For me it is something small to give up in my life to try and help others and rather than just cutting and donating my hair, I want to do everything I can to help by shaving my head. Recently, I feel like I have lost sight of what is important and with everything that is going on in the world I want to do the best I can to use opportunities I have to help make life a bit better for others. We are privileged with our choices which is why I think it is so important that we make the right ones. This action is for everyone I know that has battled cancer and for all their families and friends so that they know they have support.’ ~ Bec M
‘Every year I have watched six or so brave Eddison students in Year 12 go up and shave their heads in front of the School until now I haven’t realised just how big of an ask this is. I have been tossing and turning over the decision about whether to nominate since the announcement, but now after weighing up the factors have realised my (already quite short) hair, is not much compared to fighting cancer. After watching cancer affect the lives of my grandparents, I can see that going and shaving my head is a small but significant role to play. It shows cancer patients they don’t have to fight this alone, and that we are there supporting them every step of the way. As such I am very excited to be participating in the Shave for a Cure experience this year.’ ~ Nic A
‘I’ve decided to partake in the World’s Greatest Shave to be apart of something to take our minds off what is happening around the world now. 2020 seemingly hasn’t given us a moment to catch our breath so far, and this might serve as a much-needed break from the outside world, even if momentary. The fires and COVID-19 have also taken a significant amount of attention away from much-needed charities, such as the Leukemia Foundation. Being able to do something fun while supporting a worthy cause, that needs it more than ever, is not just desirable, but ultimately necessary.’ ~ Gautam M
‘Each day 41 people in Australia are diagnosed with a form of blood cancer. I chose to take part in the World’s Greatest Shave to raise awareness and donations for the Leukemia Foundation which provides both support and services for those suffering from blood-related illnesses.’ ~ Lachlan K
‘Choosing to shave your head is about showing solidarity with those who do not have the choice. We can lose our hair, knowing it will grow back, but this gesture shows people that their hair does not define them and that we are with them.’ ~ Fred T
‘I have been lucky enough to live a happy and healthy life. I think of this as a way to help raise awareness and money for those families who have suffered as a result of this disease.’ ~ Koh D
