Cambridge High School deputy head boy William Crofskey, left, with others of the head shave organising team, Archie Tonks, Alex Butler and Josh Stannard.
Scores of Cambridge High School students and several staff will line up on September 23 to have their heads shaved in support of one of their own.
The decision to take part in Shave for a Cure this year has been taken for the school’s head boy, Tommy O’Brien, who is undergoing treatment for testicular cancer. Tommy was diagnosed with the disease just before lockdown. He underwent surgery soon afterwards and is going through more treatment at the moment.
“He started chemo a couple of weeks ago,” said the school’s deputy head boy, William Crofskey. “A few of us thought we would put a page together and get as many people to get behind us. Hopefully we’ll get at least 50 people doing the head shave on the day.”
While the head-shave is likely to involve CHS students and staff, the boys have set up a Shave for a Cure page to attract wider support.
“We have had many people at the school put up their hand to shave their hair in recognition of Tommy’s diagnosis, to raise money and awareness for cancer research and to help everyone out there who is going through a cancer-related illness. We would really appreciate any support from the wider Cambridge community,” said William. “Any donation is much appreciated. It’s a great cause to get behind.”
The students and staff will have their heads shaved in front of the school on September 23, with the crew from Henrietta’s in Empire St manning the clippers.
“All funds raised will be donated to cancer research,” William told his online followers. “This is a disease that everyone is affected by in some way, so it would be awesome if we could all get behind it and support a good cause.”
He also posted a message from Tommy: “Hi guys, this year I was diagnosed with testicular cancer. I’m currently undergoing chemo, and thanks to years of scientific research there is, miraculously, a cure for the particular cancer I have. The cure isn’t nice, but it works. This is why I am supporting Shave for a Cure, for everyone who isn’t so lucky, so that one day all people with cancer can be in my position. Let’s make that better future become a reality by working together and shaving for a cure.”
By earlier this week, the team had raised well over $11,000 of a $15,000 target. Those keen to help support their cause should go to the following link: https://shaveforacure.everydayhero.com/nz/cambridge-high-school-shave-for-a-cure
