Paramedics from Cumnock ambulance station are set to shave their hair off to support their colleagues going through cancer treatments.
Lynne Gordon, from Kilmarnock, together with her fellow comrade Linda MacMillan, from Cumnock, decided to organise a fundraiser to support three of their close work colleagues who are dealing with the traumas of cancer.
The duo also aim to fundraise £10,000 for Ayrshire Cancer Support, helping to fund vital services for people directly affected by cancer across Ayrshire.
The fundraiser will take place on Thursday, January 30 at Urbanhair & HighHouse & The Academy, a salon/training academy in Auchinleck who have kindly agreed to contribute by allowing Lynne and Linda to hold the event at their premises.
On the day, Lynne and Linda will also be joined by their colleague, Darren Ralston, who will shave his hair in solidarity.
Lynne told Ayrshire Live: “The inspiration for the fundraiser comes from seeing three work colleagues being affected by cancer. Two have had a recent diagnosis and one has a daughter who is terminal.
“We want to show some solidarity as they go through the trauma of treatment related to hair loss.
“We want to raise funds for people in the community who could benefit from the help provided by Ayrshire Cancer Supports magnificent services.”
Lynne added: “Neither myself or Linda have organised a fundraiser like this before but are overwhelmed by the wonderful response we’ve had so far.
“We are both in good spirits about shaving our hair off, if a little apprehensive, given the fact that we have had long hair for many years. Our love for our colleagues and the show of unity is what it’s all about
“We are also being joined by another member of staff, Darren Ralston, who has pledged to shave his hair along with us. Our colleagues think it is wonderful and cannot wait to see our ‘skinheads’. “
Linda said: “I am looking forward to the actual day when we get our hair shaved but very apprehensive as to what I will look like afterwards. The good thing is it will grow back.
“When Lynne told me that she was thinking of doing the fundraiser I said if you do it then I will as well, as I was devastated when I heard the news about my colleague’s diagnosis especially when one of them is not just a colleague but a very special close friend of over 20 years whom I love dearly.
“But I know that because she is an amazingly strong person she will fight this all the way, as will both of them due to the determination they have and I felt that shaving my hair in support of them whilst raising money for Ayrshire Cancer Support is the very least I could do. “
Lynne and Linda have already fundraised over £3,960 after launching the GoFundMe page last month. The duo are planning to have a charity bucket on the day and invite everyone to come and support the event.
Lynne said: “We plan to have a charity bucket for people to pop in and make a donation on the day and everyone is welcome to come along and watch.”
To support the fundraiser, please visit here.
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