By: Marcelle Naidoo

The impressive turnout at this year’s Shavathon contributed to making it the most successful to date.

The Ridge Mall in Shallcross partnered with the CANSA association as well as other non-profit organisations to host this year’s annual Shavathon which took place on Saturday. This event aims to unite communities in creating cancer awareness. Over the years the event has grown, taking place at shopping malls all over the country and reaching more and more people.

At the Shavathon, participants can have their heads shaved or sprayed at a cost of 50 rand, all profits are donated to the CANSA association and the hair is used to make wigs for cancer survivors who lose their hair due to chemotherapy. Some attend to show their support for cancer survivors and others are motivated by the loss of loved ones to cancer.

Regional manager of The Rising Sun newspapers, Shireen Govender who has been contributing her services to the event for the past five years said that one of her close friends had lost the battle to cancer and watching her go through the stages motivated Govender to be a part of this worthy cause. She mentioned that over the past few months many young people have lost their lives to cancer and this was a major contributing factor to the huge success of the day’s event. She added that young people need to lead healthy lifestyles and be aware of the risks.

In support of those fighting cancer, a young brave girl takes her hair out. Picture by: Marcelle Naidoo

Centre manager, Mr Elvis Frank was present at the event and he also contributed by spraying his hair, whilst Vanidha Naik, a member of the Girl Guides persuaded passers-by to participate in the Shavathon. People from surrounding communities were more than happy to take part and support this course, some even abandoned their shopping to be a part of the event.

The CANSA association along with the Ridge Mall look forward to hosting many more successful events in the years to come.