When you’re a 16-year-old girl, weeks away from your 17th birthday and months away from your Year 12 formal, losing your hair would be a nightmare.
But for McCarthy Catholic College student, Courtney-Louise Landrebe, shaving her head next month is anything but a nightmare because she is doing it for a special cause, believing she can make a difference in someone else’s life.
After seeing a number of family members and friends struggle with cancer, Courtney-Louise wanted to do something to help, making the difficult decision to take part in the World’s Greatest Shave to raise funds and awareness for the Leukaemia Foundation.
“Obviously I can’t find a cure myself so I thought I’d do my part and donate to those who can try,” she said.
“A lot of people don’t realise what leukaemia is – it is in the blood, which means it is very serious as it travels quickly and causes a lot of pain.”
The Cranebrook teenager will be having her head shaved to a ‘number one’ at school during World’s Greatest Shave Week, March 13 to March 16.
“I have never done something like this before and never thought that I would. I am very nervous but very excited as well,” she said.
“I am very attached to my hair – I try new styles, cuts and colours so much that my hairdresser is always prepared for me to do something new – this is a big thing for me.”
Courtney-Louise will also be donating her locks to be made into a wig for those who have to lose their hair during cancer treatment.
She has set a $3,000 goal and is almost half way there.
“I know it is a huge goal but I really hope I will achieve it. I am hoping it will make a huge difference – even if it is just to help one person with their treatment,” she said.
Visit www.worldsgreatestshave.com and search for “Courtney”.
