A Plymouth councillor is growing her hair with the aim of having it cut around Christmas and donating it to be made into a wig for someone undergoing cancer treatment.
Independent Plympton Erle councillor Terri Beer says she hopes her thick, healthy hair can ultimately be used to help a child who has lost their hair through treatment.
For Cllr Beer, the decision is a deeply personal one after cancer claimed the lives of three members of her family in the space of four years.
She said: “To do my bit for cancer patients, I am currently growing my hair so that it can be donated to make a wig, ideally for a child.
“I am fortunate to have thick, healthy hair that is well looked after by my hairdresser, and I hope there will be enough to make a meaningful difference.
“The plan is to have it cut around Christmas.”
Cllr Beer said her family’s experiences had shown her just how difficult cancer treatment can be, both for patients and the people around them.
She said: “Sadly, cancer has touched my family deeply, with three family members losing their lives to the disease in the last four years.
“I have seen first hand how gruelling cancer treatment can be, not only for patients but also for those around them.
“Losing your hair can be one of the most distressing parts of treatment, so I wanted to do something practical to help someone going through that experience.”
Rather than taking on a sponsored sporting challenge, Cllr Beer decided growing her hair was something practical she could personally do.
She added: “I am not a marathon runner, and fundraising challenges are not really my thing, but I can grow my hair.
“Although the extra length and weight can be frustrating at times and perhaps makes me look older than I would like, that is a very small price to pay if it helps bring some comfort and confidence to someone facing cancer treatment.
“It is only a small gesture, but one made from the heart and because I care so much.”
Photographs © Wayne Perry / Plymouth Post