Community / Carolyn to shave hair in fundraising challenge for alopecia charity
The fundraising is also supporting Mind Your Head
A FUNDRAISER is preparing to shave off her hair to support the “beautiful, brave and inspirational people who are affected by alopecia”.
Carolyn McKay, from Sullom, will shave off her locks in the porch of the Brae Co-op on 29 October in aid of Alopecia UK and local mental heath charity Mind Your Head.
Alopecia UK works to improve the lives of those affected by hair loss.
McKay, 58, said she has some friends who are affected by alopecia, while her grandfather also suffered hair loss.
She conceded that “raising awareness, and educating ignorant people” is also necessary in addition to research.
“Sadly, there are folk in this world who think it is acceptable to bully, harass and torment those who have alopecia,” McKay said.
“This is not confined to kids at school, but happens in the workplace, in group activities, in social settings, and even within the family,” the fundraiser added.
“Thankfully there are many more good than bad folk out there.”
She said those with alopecia are affected in different ways, with some embracing their hair loss but others struggling to look in a mirror.
“Alopecia comes in many forms, from thinning and patchy hair loss, to total baldness,” McKay added.
“Hair sometimes grows back a completely different colour, or texture, and often never comes back.
“My grandfather lost all his hair in one night due to having double pneumonia, and being very ill. His never grew back, but his attitude towards it was great. He always said he could wash his face and hair with one sweep of his face cloth.
“Alopecia can affect anyone of any age, gender or race. It can be triggered by illness, reaction to drugs, stress, and sometimes for no apparent reason at all.
“Research into the causes, and the search for a cure needs constant funding, as do the groups who provide support and advice to people who have been affected by it.”
Anyone else wanting to help snip McKay’s hair can join in between 1pm and 4pm at the Brae Co-op on the day of the fundraising shave. People can donate to the online fundraiser here.
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