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An islander who shaved off his hairstyle of six years over the weekend has raised nearly £4,000 for a local cancer charity that provided "amazing support and care" to his partner's father before he passed away.
Ellen Spence arranged the fundraiser in memory of her late father, Francis Spence, who passed away after battling cancer for a second time – with her partner, Michael Blair, having his head shaved.
Michael, who had dreadlocks for six years, was “blown away” by the “incredible” response – with the fundraiser bringing in four times their target.
The event was a “way to give something back” to Jersey Cancer Relief, a charity that supported Francis Spence on two occasions.
Ellen explained her motivation on her fundraising page, saying: "When my dad was diagnosed, Jersey Cancer Relief took away the financial strain for our family and let us enjoy our final months together… so to give just a little something back for their amazing support and care, we have organised a head shave in my Dad's memory.”
Jersey Cancer Relief provides financial assistance to Jersey residents affected by various forms of cancer, such as covering expenses like flights to Southampton Hospital and helping with bills.
Research from the cancer charity Macmillan suggests that four out of five people, on average, are £570 per month worse off after a cancer diagnosis.
Pictured: Michael, who had been growing dreadlocks for six years, decided to shave his head as a tribute to his girlfriend's late father, Franny Spence.
The head shave event took place at The Dolphin Bar in Gorey on Saturday (21 October).
The pair exceeded their initial fundraising goal of £1,000, raising £2,098 on JustGiving and additional funds in cash, resulting in a total of £3,756.87.
Cara Blair, Michael's sister who helped to organise the event, said: "We are all so proud of Michael and the amount he has managed to raise."
She also expressed her thanks, saying, "Thank you to everyone who donated and supported Michael to make this happen in memory of Francis Spence, who would have loved it."
Michael also wanted to extend “a massive thank you” to those who supported the cause.
You can still support Michael and Cara Blair's fundraising page on JustGiving HERE.
Pictured top: Michael before... and after the head shave.
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