Te Awamutu woman Shelly Allen will be farewelling her long locks at a charity auction. Photo / Bethany Rolston
Ever since she was a teenager Te Awamutu woman Shelly Allen has had long, lustrous hair.
But that's all about to change when she shaves it off for cancer.
Shelly is one of 13 people bravely taking part in Shave for a Cure at the Ōtorohanga Club this Friday at 7.30pm.
"To say I'm nervous is an understatement," Shelly says.
"But it's all for a good cause and it's only hair — it will grow back."
Over the past 15 years, New Zealanders have registered, fundraised and shaved their locks for Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand.
The national charity is dedicated to supporting patients and their families living with a blood cancer or a related blood condition.
It receives no government funding and relies on events like Friday night's to fund its core services — patient support programmes, research, information, awareness and advocacy.
The event at the Ōtorohanga Club also includes a charity auction.
Event organiser Kerry Bisley says there's something suitable for everyone for sale.
"I've been absolutely blown away by the support of local people and businesses who have donated a wide range of items and experiences to be auctioned off," he says.
Going under the hammer are smaller, more affordable items like jars of honey, beauty vouchers and chainsaws.
Larger items include two tickets and a night's accommodation to see Elton John in Auckland and a seven-night cruise worth $4000.
One of the people having their hair shaved is a "mystery person" who is a prominent local figure in the King Country. The honours of shaving their hair will also be auctioned off.
Tickets to the event are $35, which includes a complimentary drink and supper.
Tickets can be purchased from the Ōtorohanga Club, World Travellers King Country, Ōtorohanga coffee cart Stand Easy Coffee or by contacting organiser Kerry Bisley on 022 681 7674.
People that want to sponsor Shelly to shave her hair can sign a donation form at Caltex Te Awamutu or Baked on Alexandra.
For more information visit the Facebook page.
People should remember 'it is their supermarket we are venturing into', scientist says.