Locks for Love

Kelly Calthorpe | Jun 16, 2011

Photo: Cassandra Cecchini, before and after.

Cassandra Cecchini of St. Patrick’s School in Harrowsmith is a very confident and well-spoken little girl who is not afraid to take on a challenge and see it through from start to finish.

Back in February of this year, Cassandra decided she was going to let her hair grow long and her mother told her about “Locks For Love”, an organization that collects hair to make wigs for children who are living through the devastating effects of cancer. Cassandra decided that not only would she donate her own hair, but she set a goal of raising $1000 in pledges to support children’s cancer research. With the support of her parents, Cassandra spoke at her church, in public and anywhere where she could meet someone and talk about her “Locks for Love” campaign.

On June 8, the students of St. Patrick’s School gathered in the gym while Cassandra took her place her place in front of the crowd, her family, and Mr. Faucette of the Canadian Cancer Society. Mr. Faucette briefly explained to the students the importance of needing to look well when you are going through such a difficult time and not feeling well. He went on to explain that it takes 12 ponytails to make one wig and this is why it so important for people to donate their hair. At the end of Cassandra’s speech about her fundraising journey, her hairdresser cut her very long ponytail amid much applause from the students and staff.

To support Cassandra, the staff and students of St. Patrick’s School organized, “Crazy Hair/Hat/Gum/Pyjama Day”. Students were encouraged to bring a twoonie to participate and as a result of their support they raised over $500, which gave Cassandra a grand total of just over $1600 raised for “Locks for Love”