For those directly or indirectly affected by cancer, the drive for fundraising and awareness can be astronomical.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Look no further than Tony Phillips, James Clough, Carmel McKenzie, Brian Sommerville and Jim Deguara.
The brave quintet had their heads shaved as part of Old Bar Pharmacy's World Greatest Shave event on Wednesday, March 13.
Tony lost his brother to leukaemia six months ago and a sister-in-law to cancer five years ago. Another sister-in-law is fighting breast cancer.
Tony is also battling prostate cancer, diagnosed in June last year.
He has just completed nine weeks of radiation therapy in Port Macquarie.
"It's really opened my eyes as to how many people need radiation," Tony said.
It's a small price to pay to help someone else.
- Carmel McKenzie, World's Greatest Shave participant
Holding back tears, Tony was lost for words when asked what the shave meant to him.
He encouraged everyone to make regular check-ups a routine exercise.
Facing two bouts of leukaemia in his life as well as dealing with his son's own battle with cancer a child, James didn't hesitate to register for the shave.
With a big smile, he said nothing will stop him from doing his bit to raise funds and awareness.
Losing her partner to leukaemia a few years ago, Carmel McKenzie has made the shave an annual venture.
"I've done it every year for the past four years," she said.
"It's a small price to pay to help someone else."
A very chirpy Jim Deguara spoke openly about his support for the cause.
"It's fabulous thing to do," he said.
"I did it about 10 years ago when I was driving truck interstate."
He thanked Old Bar Lions Club for donating $300 to the shave.
Both of Brian Somerville's parents battled with cancer in their lifetime. Taking part in the World's Greatest Shave was therefore a no-brainer.
"I got asked to be involved and I jumped at the chance," he said.
His wife Mavis was one of many to have their hair coloured on the day.
Ray Standring collected $700 before his immaculate silver hair, beard and moustache was coloured red.
"My wife wouldn't like me if I got it taken off," he laughed.
Old Bar Public School wasn't missing out on the action.
The school held a crazy hair day, with each student donating $2 towards fundraising efforts.
The school's leaders visited the pharmacy to lend a hand with hair colouring.
Toby Marteene was proud to show off his own wacky hairstyle.
"It's little things like this we can do to help people," Toby said of the fundraiser.
Ava Brudar is certainly a hairstylist in the making.
I like seeing everyone support a foundation that can use our help.
- Hope Taffe, Old Bar Public School student
"I love colouring people's hair," Ava said.
Hope Taffe was only too keen to help out.
"I like seeing everyone support a foundation that can use our help," Hope said
Chelsea Davies was proud of the participants in the shave.
"I'm really amazed by these people who want to have their heads shaved," she said.
The school raised $890 on the day.
During the shave, Coles Old Bar sent across $600.
Old Bar Pharmacy promoted the event for one month, including the sale of raffle tickets.
"It really brings the community together," the pharmacy's Jenny Graham said.
The Leukaemia Foundation is the only Australian charity dedicated to helping those with blood related disorders.
By fundraising for the shave, you will help give families facing blood cancer the emotional and practical support they need.
For more information on the World's Greatest Shave, visit www.worldsgreatestshave.com.
While you're with us…
Did you know the Manning River Times is now offering breaking news alerts and a weekly email newsletter? Keep up-to-date with all the local news: SIGN UP HERE.