A husband and wife are preparing to shave their heads and they hope their efforts not only inspire others, but raises some much needed funds too.
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Marcus and Monika Cooke, owners of Wellington's Cookie's Cafe are participating in the World's Greatest Shave next month and it's all to raise awareness of cancer and funds for research.
The duo have both been touched by cancer in their lives in various ways and wanted to help other families in need.
Two of Mrs Cooke's siblings and her first husband lost their own battles with the disease. And just this year another two of her siblings were diagnosed with cancer.
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Mr Cooke lost his mother-in-law to cancer and his second wife to breast cancer.
The Cooke's hope to raise a total of $5000 for the the Leukaemia Foundation's World's Greatest Shave.
"This is a cause that's really close to both of our hearts," Mrs Cooke said.
This is a cause that's really close to both of our hearts
- Monika Cooke
They hope that by doing the shave it will help families currently affected by cancer and encourage the community to see their GP regularly.
"Even if we raise enough money to help one family to be with their loved ones while they're having treatment and not worry about bills or work, then brilliant," Mrs Cooke said.
She said cancer is a silent killer adding that it can get anyone at anytime.
They will shave their hair on March, 14 at Cookie's Cafe with the fundraiser to commence about 12pm.
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They are more excited than nervous and just can't wait for the event.
"I missed out doing the fundraiser last year and I thought 'I just want to do the World's Greatest Shave'," Mrs Cooke added.
The husband and wife said the community support has been "terrific" with many local businesses coming on board to offer vouchers as part of a raffle that will be held on the day to help raise funds.
"It's also been a great way to get all the townspeople together," Mr Cooke added.
"We just want people to get together and raise awareness... and raise funds for research..."
The Leukaemia Foundation is the only national charity dedicated to helping more Australian's with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and related disorders survive blood cancer.
If you would like to donate or to find out more information visit worldsgreatestshave.com
Taylor Jurd
Hi, my name is Taylor Jurd. I am a journalist with Australian Community Media, I write for the Western Magazine and Wellington Times.
Hi, my name is Taylor Jurd. I am a journalist with Australian Community Media, I write for the Western Magazine and Wellington Times.
