Battersea woman shaves head in support of Macmillan Cancer Support’s Brave the Shave fundraising project

A woman whose mother had cancer has shaved her head for a national charity, writes Sam Walker.

Sarah Skinner, 32, from Battersea, took part in Macmillan Cancer Support’s Brave the Shave fundraising project.

The project has entered its fifth year, in which time more than £22.7 million has been raised – enough to pay for 140 nurses for three years.

Sarah’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002 and had successful treatment.

Then in 2014, when her grandmother died from lung cancer, Macmillan Cancer Support was there to help.

Sarah said: “The services Macmillan Cancer Support provide were so helpful to my family.

“We were grateful for the advice and guidance provided by the free Macmillan Support line, which offers confidential support to people living with cancer, as well as their family and friends about emotional, physical and financial issues.”

When asked if she would be keeping her hair that short, she said: “Eventually I probably will grow my hair back, but I loved having my head shaved and felt proud I could help raise funds for such an amazing cause.”

Thousands of fundraisers are expected to shave their heads this year, and locks that are long enough will be donated to The Little Princess Trust.

The trust donates free real hair wigs to children and young people who have lost their own hair through cancer treatment or other conditions.

For more information on Brave the Shave, to sign up or to donate, visit bravetheshave.org.uk.