Ashford local shaves head in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust
Julie Porter (60), who works at the Dobbies Garden Centre in Ashford, is swapping her gardening shears for hair clippers as she has shaved her hair in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust (TCT).
As TCT is the garden centre’s National Charity Partner, Dobbies is showing its support by topping up Julie’s fundraising efforts to over £2,000 to maximise the funds going to the specialist cancer charity.
Julie, who works in the foodhall at Dobbies’ Ashford store, was cheered on by team members, friends and family members to undertake the sponsored head shave that took place on Saturday 17 June.
Teenage Cancer Trust is the only UK charity dedicated to improving the quality of life and chances of survival for the seven young people aged 13 to 24 diagnosed with cancer daily.
Julie sadly lost her mum to cancer when she was just 24 years old, and since having to say goodbye to a few close friends to the disease, it’s a cause close to Julie’s heart. She explained: “Teenage Cancer Trust is such a great charity doing fantastic work for young people who have been diagnosed with cancer, those in recovery and the families affected by the news.
“I wanted to do something that would make a real difference. I am extremely thankful to everyone who has shown their kindness with donations and I'm grateful to Dobbies generosity in getting me to over £2,000 in donations. I couldn’t have done this without my brilliant hairdresser, Dan from Hall Hair, who did my head shave free of charge.”
Graham Newton, General Manager at Dobbies’ Ashford store, said: "Julie’s head shave is such an admirable way to fundraise and we’re really proud of her for raising such a fantastic amount in aid of our National Charity Partner. As a company, we’ve raised over £1.2m to-date and we would encourage anyone who can support to donate.”
Donna Bednarek, Senior relationship Manager at Teenage Cancer Trust, said: “We are incredibly grateful for Julie’s support. Taking on a head shave is no easy task, and it’s a lovely thing to do in memory of her mum and those she has lost to cancer. Every day, 7 young people will hear the words “you have cancer” and with the support of people like Julie we can be there to ensure no young person faces cancer alone.”
To find out more about how you can support Teenage Cancer Trust, visit dobbies.com/fundraising-and-partnerships.