Longford's PVs hosting head shave fundraiser towards Irish Cancer Society

On Saturday, October 18 in PV’s Red Room, there will be a charity event in memory of Keith Robins. Weronika Byrne will be shaving her head on the day, with proceeds going towards the Irish Cancer Society.

As for her hair, she will be donating it to the Little Princess Trust, which makes wigs for children with cancer.
Her husband, Samuel Byrne, is the manager of Longford Shopping Centre. The pair were friends with the late Keith Robins, who died a month ago.

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“It’s fantastic that she’s taken onboard the fundraiser, in memory of our friend Keith Robins who we lost a month ago. Wishing her all the best and support a husband can,” commented Samuel.

There have been posters distributed around Longford town in various places, shops, restaurants and cafes to build awareness of the upcoming event.

Weronika, who is cutting her hair, said: “I also posted on my Facebook page and it’s been shared by many supportive Longford groups. There’s a big poster in the shopping centre as well. There’s going to be an advert running on Shannonside FM as well.”

Having long hair, Weronika added that she had always wanted to see herself bald, but the loss of her and her husband’s friend has driven her to do it for charity. She contacted charities around the UK and Ireland to turn her hair into a wig, and found the Little Princess Trust a good place to donate her hair once the charity event is finished.

“If anyone feels like they can do something good, it’s great to spread awareness for those who need help in those dark times. We never know when we will need help. We’ll build a great community. Anybody who wants to run a fundraiser, go and do it. As crazy as it seems to shave your head, it’s bringing a lot of attention as well.”

The goal for the fundraiser is €2,000. Already, Weronika's Just Giving online page has amassed €2,084 (at the tme of going to press) for the Irish Cancer Society.

“I’m really happy. I’m hoping for a bigger number on the day. It’s great to see that so many people care for those who aren’t as lucky as we are.

“The whole event is supported by local and national businesses. PV’s Longford is helpful for letting us use the Red Room. A lot of businesses have donated for the bake sale and raffle. A local DJ has come for music and entertainment. It’s great to see the community be there for the support. It’s a fun day for the whole family for a raffle, bake sale, arts and crafts, and much, much more.”

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The event will run from 1pm until 4pm with fun for all the family, with Hanlon Art works, a bake sale, raffle and plenty more to be enjoyed.