The Shave-a-Thon is an annual event where people shave or spray their hair in solidarity with those affected by cancer.
The first Shave-a-Thon was held in the Eastern Cape in 2003. The idea behind these events is to show solidarity for those affected by cancer since a common side effect of cancer treatment is losing their hair. It’s been a national event ever since.
Participants donate R50 as a fee for shaving or colouring their hair. Children under 12 pay only R25. The donation is used to provide a service to the public and people affected by cancer. There are also colourful wraps available for R50 to R100.
Only hair that is longer than 20cm is used to make wigs, the rest is thrown away and dreadlocks can’t be used. There is a variety of different coloured sprays that are made from vegetable dye, so they are not harmful and wash out easily.
This year it will be taking place on Saturday 1 March at Clearwater Mall, Princess Crossing, Retail Crossing, Village@Horison, and Westgate.
There is a facebook competition where entrants can win books, watches, cameras and hampers. The Grand Prize is two night weekend accommodation at the Commodore Waterfront Hotel in Cape Town. For more details see their webpage.
If you cannot attend on Saturday, and wish to contribute to a good cause, you can donate R50 by going to the “bail-out” link on their webpage.
For more information visit their webpage at www.shaveathon.org.za.
Contact the local branch of Cansa on 011 768 4342
