KUCHING: Three women teachers decided to lose their crowning glory to keep the conversation going on childhood cancer here on Sunday.
Together with seven other individuals including a 10-year-old girl, they helped raise more than RM75,000, exceeding the Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society’s (SCCS) target of RM50,000.
GoBald 2022 is the society’s signature fundraising campaign to help raise funds for children in Sarawak who are affected by cancer.
Led by Principal Eileen Chua they braved the shave at YelaoShr Saradise here to spread the message about childhood cancer.
She highlighted the importance of bringing children into conversations and discussions surrounding childhood cancer.
“Our teachers and parents are very passionate about this cause,” she said.
“Through the GoBald initiative, we can teach our young students to be empathetic and aware of the less fortunate children who are affected by cancer.
“We believe that in order for us to cultivate a kind and compassionate mindset in children, we need to walk the talk and set an example.”
The event, initiated by YelaoShr Saradise, was held in conjunction with the Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM) in September.
SCCS President Rodney Wong said GoBald is SCCS’s most prominent awareness campaign held annually to keep the conversation going on the roles played by government agencies, corporations, private sectors, non-profit organisations, schools and individuals.
“In keeping this discourse going, we need leaders, role models, movers and shakers with the ability to nurture and educate to set an example for the younger generation on the importance of showing up for children with cancer to improve treatment and outcomes of childhood cancer,” he said.
“The teachers and parents at YelaoShr Saradise are great examples of these leaders. The courageous act of the young student who decided to shave her head to support children fighting cancer is a testament to that,” he added.
The overall campaign saw participation and support from more than 250 teachers, staff, parents, students and donors, with about 35 supporting the event physically at its learning centre in Saradise.
The event was also supported by salon partner Maison Monica Hair & Beauty Academy who carried out the shave and the shots for event photography.
Funds raised from GoBald will support SCCS’s annual operating expenses of about RM1.5 million to ensure children diagnosed with cancer have access to the treatment and care they need to get better.
Organisations who are interested in holding a satellite shave at their own premises can contact the GoBald team at +6011 3927 6553 or email at events@sccs.org.my.
