EBENEZER Public School Student Olivia Hazelton Berry has cut off her long Rapunzel-like locks for Australian kids in need.
The 12-year-old Wilberforce resident is donating her mane to The Variety Club’s Hair For Heart program, which turns donations of hair into specialised wigs – which can normally cost upwards of $5000 - for those who have lost their hair due to medical conditions including alopecia and cancer.
In addition to the hair donation, funds raised for the sale of the hair, as well as by the hair donor are used by The Variety Club to buy equipment for and provide specialised services to the children of families in need.
“I was shocked that it cost so much to make a wig!” said Olivia.
“I have always been brought up to be aware of those in our community who may not be as fortunate as ourselves, and that there are many ways that you can help through kindness and charity.
“When I heard about Hair For Heart it felt like such an easy thing to do, I really didn’t need all that hair and I’m actually looking forward to the lower maintenance of shorter hair! Especially after swimming!”
Variety – the Children’s Charity CEO, David Sexton, said people like Olivia make a big difference for Aussie kids.
“Variety doesn’t receive any government funding so every wig and every piece of equipment granted to families is thanks to the amazing efforts of those who participate in the Hair For Heart program. We can’t thank Olivia enough for her dedicated efforts to help us help Aussie Kids,” Mr Saxton said.
Celebrity hair stylist Joh Bailey - who is a big supporter of the program - donated his time to cut and style Olivia’s hair.
Olivia raised $2000 for the cause via her fundraising page. To donate hair or money to Hair For Heart, visit variety.org.au/get-involved/hair-donation
