- By Carlos Norton, AUT Journalism Student
With a mixture of tears and laughter, Pakuranga College has completed another successful Shave for a Cure event.
The college has fundraised the highest amount of all schools in Auckland this year, coming third overall with a staggering $23,752 so far.
With over 50 student and staff volunteers cutting or shaving their hair on the day, the school’s hall was packed with nervous energy.
The college has participated in the event for several years, through its Service Council.
The lead behind the event is Abby Plom, a year 12 student with a very personal connection to the cause.
“Last year, my dad passed away from brain cancer which has been really hard,” she says.
In the past, Abby has done a skydive out of a plane to raise money for the Cancer Society, but she says this felt like the best next step.
“It’s something he would have done. I think it’s a really good way to honour him.”
Abby plans to cut 35cm of her hair to donate to Freedom Wigs.
She’s sitting eighth on the Shave for a Cure nationwide individual leaderboard, raising more than $3,600 in just over a month. Her story has also encouraged other students to participate.
Year 11 student Joseph Trembath is also taking the hot seat, going from what he describes as a “luscious mullet” to a buzzcut.
“I’ve been growing out my mullet for at least a year. Some people are excited to see it go, others are pretty sad.”
Joseph has also had a lot of engagement with his community, encouraged by his family and friends.
“I was very shocked to see how much I’ve raised. I set my [fundraising] goal at $500 and now I’m on $1100. The support has been amazing.”
Autumn McCaughan in year 11 is especially courageous, completely shaving her shoulder-length hair.
“It’s daunting. I’ve had people tell me I shouldn’t shave my head, but I know they’re not going to stop me.
“I’m doing this for myself and what I think is good, rather than what other people think.”
Autumn’s family has dealt with various forms of cancer, which has encouraged her to take a stand.
“Shaving my hair off, when some people don’t get the choice, pales in comparison,” she says.
Autumn donated 40cm of her hair last year to Freedom Wigs, but this year she’s going even shorter.
She reminds people of the cause behind it, reiterating “it’s just hair, it’ll grow back”.
Autumn also placed on the individual leaderboard, landing 10th overall with over $3300 raised.
Whilst everyone participating has different stories, they all agree on one thing.
“It’s a great way to honour those we’ve lost,” Abby says.
All funds collected will be donated to Leukaemia and Blood Cancer NZ. Visit www.shaveforacure.co.nz/t/pakuranga-college to donate.
