Telia Coverdale has taken four years to grow and maintain her dreadlocks – now she’s getting ready to shave the lot off for the Leukemia Foundation.
The 18-year-old Arnolds Creek resident will shed her mane in a bid to raise at least $2000 for blood cancer research.
She will get the clipper treatment from her hairdresser sister on March 17.
The World’s Greatest Shave is the foundation’s major annual fundraiser with many participants around the west getting the chop for charity.
Telia hopes the money she raises will help give families facing blood cancer the emotional and practical support they need, as well as help drive vital research.
“Shaving my hair is something I always considered doing, however I never thought I would grow the courage to actually go ahead with the idea,” she said.
“After four years of my beloved dreads I thought that maybe it’s time to let go – and what better way to do it then raise money for a worthy cause?
“I’ve seen many families close to my own have horrible experiences with cancer and leukemia, so I thought if I can make a difference, small or big, it is worth it.
“I think if we all adopted this mindset to issues in society we could support one another.
“That’s why I have chosen to do so – so that maybe others can grow the courage to do things that support organisations like the Leukemia Foundation.
“The response people have shown already is overwhelming.”
Telia’s friends and family will have opportunities to cut off one of her dreadlocks in return for a donation.
Details: bit.ly/2mH4GMM
