Zara recently took on a ‘fund-razing’ challenge and had her long hair chopped off and donated to The Little Princess Trust whilst also raising money for Candlelighters!

Read Zara’s story below!

Tell us more about what you did…
I decided to take part and completed the ‘Fund-Razor’ challenge on the 1st December in the hope that I would raise money for Candlelighters and also be able to donate my 30cm of hair to the Little Princess Trust. I completed the task in hand and managed to get 4 braids worth of hair which were packaged up and sent to the Little Princess Trust to be used for a wig. I also managed to raise awareness of the fabulous work Candlelighters do here in Yorkshire by raising £815!

What was your motivation?
Donating my hair is something I have always wanted to do. I have been lucky enough to be blessed with good genes, and good hair is a part of that. My motivation to donate my hair was because I know how hard close friends find it experiencing Cancer as adults, but imagine being a young child or adult going through the same pain. Their bravery through this tough time is nothing compared to what I did and I wanted to do something which I know would make them happier, such as a real hair wig! By getting my hair cut, I wanted to give a child the gift of joy.

Why did you choose Candlelighters?
Where do I begin with why Candlelighters? As a charity, the cause is beyond worthy. The people who work and volunteer here as well as the families who benefit from your amazing services is the reason why I chose you!

You give the children and more so their families the much needed support during this difficult time. You’re a friend for them when they are in need. A place to stay, a supportive unit for whatever means necessary. I could go on and on…

You may be Gateley’s chosen charity of the year, but through learning about your tremendous work, becoming a volunteer and seeing your passion – it confirmed to me why I chose to raise the money for this charity. I know the money will be put to amazing use and aid a family with a much needed weekend away to forget their worries and feel ‘normal’ again, even if it is for a little while.

You have allowed me give something back to the Yorkshire community, which adopted me some 6 years ago.

How do you feel now?
It has taken me a few days to get used to it but I adore my hair! I feel like a new woman, as cliché as that sounds. I am happy I got to do something that benefits two amazing charities – both which have meant a lot to me over the past year. I am beyond pleased I finally got to donate my hair and raise money for a worthy cause.

The smile on my face has still not gone since last weekend!!