Weekend Shavathon

ON Saturday and Sunday, the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) is hosting its 14th annual Shavathon at various shopping malls across the country.

This year’s fun event, aptly titled ‘‘Loud in Colour’’, encourages people to voluntarily shave or colour their hair at lively Shavathon marquees as a powerful message to bring attention to the fight against cancer, while inspiring friends, family and strangers to also support cancer research.

For a R50 donation, which can be made on the day (R25 for kids under 12) trained professionals will shave and spray attendees’ hair in cool and interesting styles.

From buzz cuts, side shaves and rainbow-coloured Mohawks, to a simple short back and sides.

Hair which measures a ponytail of 25cm or longer can also be donated to make wigs for cancer patients at no extra cost.

“Shavathon provides the opportunity to give back by raising funds for cancer patient care and support programmes through shaving or spraying, making a hair donation for wigs; and to show solidarity with those battling cancer, or whose loved ones are fighting cancer.

“It’s also a time to remember and honour those who have lost the battle,” said Cansa head of sustainability Maria Scholtz.

As the preferred method to donate, Zapper mobile payments will be present at the marquees to assist supporters with how to make their donation using the Zapper app.

“Last year with Zapper’s help R6 million was raised for Cansa and this year we are hoping to exceed that number,” said Stacey Quarmby, the account manager for Zapper South Africa.

“We invite everyone down, both young and old, to show their support for this worthy cause.”

For more information, or to find which mall closest to you will be hosting a Shavathon, call 0800 22 66 22 or go to www.shavathon.org.za