GROW, CHOP, DONATE: A BUZZ CUT CAN MEAN SO MUCH MORE

I was growing my hair mostly as a fashion statement. Then I went to Kerala on vacation and heard about hair donation. The pictures online of people donating their hair for cancer patients inspired me. So I grew my hair for a year, until it was long enough to donate. My mom oiled it every day so it would grow faster. Every time people asked, I explained why I was growing my hair and as a result two other people pledged to donate theirs at an event we organised in Mumbai. I feel very happy that I was able to do something to bring happiness to someone who needed it.

LENDLE SUNNY, 24, an IT professional who donated via NGO Hair for Hope India

My sister Kavita died 18 years ago after a painful tryst with cancer. This contribution is our small way of celebrating her life by helping someone cope with cancer. I’m even prouder that my 13-year-old daughter Ameya joined me in this. We donated in October. Bringing a smile to someone is our biggest reward. SUNITA WAZIR, 40, an HR consultant who donated via NGO Madat Charitable Trust

I’ve always been interested in donations for charity. I donate blood regularly. Last July, a friend’s aunt donated her hair, so I decided to too. By February, my hair had grown long enough to cut and donate, but then it occurred to me that if I cut it short, people would comment on the ‘new haircut’. I decided to go bald so I could spread awareness every time someone asked why. It was also my way of showing my solidarity with people who had lost their hair. It was a difficult decision to take, but I am very glad I did it.

SHERIN MATHEW, 26, contracts manager who donated via NGO Hair for Hope India