Heike von Hörsten, from Somerset West, felt strongly that she wanted to do something to help cancer patients.
She decided to cut some of her own hair in order to help someone else through a painful and emotional time during their treatment.
Helderberg Hospice works in partnership with CANSA, appealing for ponytails in order to make sufficient real hair wigs for cancer survivors.
Hair donations such as Heike’s are sent to a wig manufacturer of human hair.
The wig-making process can take between eight and 12 weeks, and the wig is then given at no cost to identified, registered patients.
Heike’s sacrifice in the giving up of her hair is far outweighed by her feelings of pride and joy, in knowing that her precious gift will be going to a child or adult with cancer, to help them feel beautiful again.
Helderberg Hospice appeals to everyone in the community who has long hair which they are considering cutting, to donate their ponytail.
A ponytail donation must be 25cm or longer. The hair should be clean and dry. All hair, whether dyed or treated, is acceptable.
Dreadlocks cannot be used. When cutting the hair, bind both ends with an elastic band and place in a zip-lock bag.
Post or drop off your hair donation, including your name and contact details to Helderberg Hospice, 21 Old Stellenbosch Road, Somerset West, or one of the Helderberg Hospice charity shops at 139 Main Road, Somerset West or Panorama Building, 21 Fagan Street, Strand.
Contact Helderberg Hospice at 021 852 4608, email info@helderberghospice.org.za, or visit www.helderberghospice.org.za
