Kind-hearted Newington Community Primary pupil Amelia has donated her long tresses to the Little Princess Trust that helps young cancer sufferers and young people experiencing the devastating effects of hair loss.
The seven year old, Year 3 pupil decided to sacrifice her brown hair for the charity when she saw a family friend lose theirs during treatment for cancer.
Her mum Bethany said: “She was immediately determined to do everything she could to help others in a similar situation.”
Before having 12 inches lopped from her hair in several plaits on stage in front of the school assembly, Amelia said she was “excited and nervous”.
And as teaching assistant Eve Goldsmith, a trained hairdresser, made the cuts of kindness, Amelia’s generous gesture was cheered on by pupils and staff.
She was supported by her mum, dad Thomas, younger sister Maddison-Rose and baby brother Arthur, and other proud family members.
Afterwards Amelia brushed out her shorter hair and added: “I am really glad I did that – I hope it helps other children.”
She has already passed her fundraising target of £250, with the total now at more than £600 and rising. Her mum added: “People have been very generous and we have received excellent support from our family and friends, Newington school and from D S Plumbing.”
More pledges can be made at the Just Giving Page Amelia’s Big Hair Chop; there is a collection bucket in school; and her aunty Jessie is having her long hair cut for charity soon as well..
Head teacher Cliff Stokes said: “Amelia’s efforts underline our values of helping others. Her selfless act is a great gesture of kindness and it is a brave thing to have your hair cut off particularly in front of so many people.
“It is a lovely gift to be able to give at Christmas and it really highlights the true giving spirit of the season.”
The Little Princess Trust provides free, real-hair wigs for young cancer sufferers or for children and young people experiencing the devastating effects of hair loss. It also funds pioneering, life-saving research into childhood cancers.
The charity states: “We use hair donations and fundraising monies sent to us by our amazing supporters, to manufacture and fit our beautiful real hair wigs.
“Established in 2006, we have supplied over 8000 wigs to children and young people and have invested around £5 million into ground-breaking childhood cancer research. Watch our latest film online to find out more about our charity.”
For more information go online at www.littleprincesses.org.uk