Brave shave

Harry and Ryley before the shave. 205142_02

By Jessica Anstice

Two Beaconsfield Primary School students have shown great leadership and community spirit in their support of the World’s Greatest Shave, for the Leukaemia Foundation.

School captains, Harry and Ryley, put on brave faces while their hair was shaved off at a school assembly on Monday 24 February.

Combined, the 11-year-olds have raised about $5300, almost reaching their goal of $6000.

“I saw kids shave their heads in assembly two years ago and I was inspired to raise money for this charity,” Harry said.

“I think it’s nice to help people that don’t have things that we do. By raising money for the Leukaemia Foundation, I can help sick people that need medicine or give families a place to stay if their kids are in hospital.”

When Ryley found out his lifelong friend Harry would be taking part in the fundraiser, he decided to join him.

“I thought it was a great way to do some good in the world and try to make a difference,” Ryley said.

“I think it is important to help people feel like they are cared for and respected, they are important.

“I feel great knowing this will make a difference to people that are finding it tough battling a terrible disease.”

The boys’ parents were non-stop supportive and beyond proud from the moment the boys announced their commitment to the World’s Greatest Shave, until the big shave day.

“I am so proud of these boys. They are very humble and think there is a lot of fuss about just cutting their hair off,” Harry’s mum Kim Tivendale said.

“The empathy and kindness they have shown is amazing for kids their age.

“They had a vision of growing their hair and raising money for other people, and now they have worked hard to raise an amazing amount of money. They should both be very proud of themselves for their fundraising and for being great little humans.”

Ryley’s mum, Rebecca Williams, said the two boys are “selfless individuals” who are in leaderships roles for good reason.

“They always put others before themselves. I am absolutely proud of them,” Ms Williams said.

“We would like to thank the amazing people and the generosity and support everyone has shown in the boys quest for raising money to help find a cure for blood cancer.”