LEUKAEMIA and Blood Cancer New Zealand’s annual Shave For A Cure event has raised over $1 million this year for cancer sufferers.
For Wainuiomata High School teenager Conan Burt, it’s about more than losing his hair.
15 year old Conan (RIGHT) shaved his head for cancer a week ago in honour of his fitness mentor and family friend Michael (Juggler) Sharp.
Michael Sharp (37), was raising funds to pay his medical bills when he lost his battle to liver cancer and died at the end of February.
After seeing the ad for Shave For A Cure on TV, Conan says he decided to take part in the event and shave his head.
“I just want to be able to help someone else out.” he says.
Conan’s mother, Tracey Burke is understandably proud of what her son has done.
“I think it’s a great cause, and he needed a haircut anyway.” she says.
Conan admits he was nervous before the shave, saying he had never shaved his head completely before.
The bald headed teenager now has a cold season of rugby league to look forward to.
With lots of support from family, friends and the community, Conan has managed to raise over $400.00.
Conan’s friends think it’s cool that he’s shaved his head, and joke with him about the fact that he is now bald.
The support from friends and team mates was evident when they performed a haka [RIGHT] for him after the shave.
All proceeds from Shave For A Cure help pay for medication not funded by the government.
It also helps provide information, support and assistance for those who have a blood cancer or related condition.
