By Rowan Forster
Cailin Chapman has demonstrated bravery, determination and maturity that many adults aspire to possess.
The nine-year-old Pakenham Hills student is on a mission to raise awareness about the devastating effects of cancer.
In doing so, Cailin sat before a packed school hall on Monday and had her head shaved – raising money for the Kids with Cancer Foundation.
Her message was simple; you’re the same person with or without hair.
“I’m doing it to raise awareness and understanding,” she said.
“It’s exciting but it also made me very nervous.”
Despite setting a fundraising goal of $600, Cailin raised more than $2,200 for the organisation.
Her efforts were lauded by her dad, Josh Chapman, who watched her undergo the haircut with pride.
“Her selflessness is overwhelming,” he said.
“I’m so proud of her.
“We tried to steer her away from shaving her head but it couldn’t be done – she was just so determined.”
Billy Koffman, from Boulevard Barbers in Lakeside, closed his business for an hour to undertake the makeover.
He said it was extremely fulfilling to help Cailin achieve her goal.
“She’s only nine years old and she’s got the guts and determination to something that many wouldn’t,” he said.
“For her to undertake something like this, we’ve got to support her.”
