ERIN Fairbrother, 14, knows just how important longs locks can be for a girl.
She has never had her hair cut too short, preferring to style it into pigtails and other fashionable updos.
But the Mount Cotton teen has undergone a drastic change.
She has become bald.
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Ruling out teenage rebellion for her suddenly punk chic look, Erin said it was all for good cause – to help other young people enjoy the fun of hair.
Her locks will be used to make a free wig for a sick person suffering hair loss.
She has also raised more than $2000 for Hair With Heart, which is run by Variety Children’s Charity, to help out.
“I made the decision to make a difference by cutting and donating my hair to be made into a wig for someone who has lost their hair due to a medical condition,” Erin said.
“Wigs can cost families up to $6,000, which only lasts for one to two years, meaning families can spend tens of thousands of dollars on the purchase of wigs throughout a child’s youth.
“It felt fantastic knowing that my hair is going to a great cause. It also feels very weird with no hair.”
Erin’s mother, Michelle Fairbrother, said she was proud her daughter had become inspired to help in such a heartfelt way.
She said Erin was spurred into action after finding out going bald was a top reason young people with cancer felt miserable.
“Erin made the decision to shave her hair and donate her locks because she has been very moved by the impact of cancer and other illness on young people in particular,” Ms Fairbrother said.
“Her long hair has always been her pride and joy and she has never cut her hair short before, so this was her way of making a meaningful difference.
“We are so proud of her commitment and passion at an age where image is everything and looking different can create some challenging moments.
“It provides an opportunity for her to have a conversation about why she has chosen to do this.”
Ms Fairbrother said Erin had been amazed at the support from friends and family to help her give to the cause.
Her haircut was done for free at Beautify Hair Design at the beginning of the school holidays.
Erin will show her look to school friends and teachers when she returns to Calvary Christian College next term.
To help Erin give to Hair With Heart, visit her fundraising page here.
