Shrewsbury student shaves her hair for Macmillan - in memory of her mother
An Art student from Shrewsbury College had her head shaved yesterday in memory of her mum who passed away from cancer 10 years ago.
Phoebe Lytollis, 16, from Telford, signed up to ‘Brave the Shave’ - a Macmillan fundraising initiative, in the hope of raising £1000 for the charity which supported and cared for her mother, before she sadly passed away of cancer, 10 years ago next week.
Phoebe said: “I wanted to do something bigger and more challenging than some of the normal fundraising events people do. I decided when I was about 13 that I wanted to do a sponsored head shave, but thought it would be best to wait and do it when I was a bit older at college.
“Even though I was young when my I lost my mum to cancer, I remember how supportive the nurses at Macmillan were. This is my way of saying thank you to them, and it’s a way of raising awareness of the charity. I think everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer in some way, so I think it’s important we help tackle the illness together.
“I was pretty nervous before having my hair shaved and I don’t think people thought I was really going to go through with it. But I’m glad I did!”
Crowds of staff and students from across the College turned out to support Phoebe during her challenge, which took place in the College’s reception area.
Phoebe added: “Everyone has been really supportive of me - my boyfriend is also going to have his head shaved next week. I know for some people shaving long hair off is a really daunting thing to do, and it is, but I know the money I raise after doing this today, will go to a really important cause.”
Helen Knight, Macmillan fundraising Manager for Shropshire, was at the College today to support Phoebe. She said: “What a wonderful way to remember the tenth year anniversary of losing her mum to cancer.
“Phoebe has been so brace today, not only shaving her head but involving her friends and family at such a difficult time. She has raised awareness for Macmillan Cancer Research, which is a vital part of our work, as well as raising much needed funds.”
To make a donation, please visit Phoebe’s ‘Brave the Shave’, fundraising page, bravetheshave.org.uk/shavers/phoebe-lytollis
