Find Out Why Karenzas Going Bald
By Bev Jordan
At the age of 23 Karenza de Leon is looking forward to going bald on Saturday, May 15 at 5.45pm.
She has been growing her hair since the age of 11 and at a mighty 86cms long it is her pride and joy.
The university student will be having her head shaved at this year’s Hills Relay For Life at Castle Hill Showground next Saturday to raise money for cancer research and Cancer Council support programs.
“I was frightened at first but then I met a woman who had brain cancer and she had to shave her hair, she had no choice. A lot of people keep telling me that I am brave for shaving my hair but I always believe that the ones who battle cancer are the ones who have the most strength.”
Karenza is a tutor and is studying early childhood and primary education at the Australia Catholic University. She says everyone has been very supportive of her decision to shave her hair…. “they know how passionate I am about doing charity work and helping people in the community.”
Karenza was in Year 5 when she lost her grandfather to oesophagus cancer.
“It was the first form of loss I had in my life. Ever since I heard about Relay for Life, I have always wanted to be a part of it, and show my support in any way I could.
“My hair has always been my identity but at the end of the day it’s just hair.”
Her hair will be donated to make a wig. She would love to raise $5000 for the Cancer Council, so far, her team: Karenza’s Head Shave is busy fundraising. She is also holding a fundraiser at her birthday party later in the month.
To donate to Karenza’s fundraising please visit www.cancercouncil.org.au/relayforlife/ teams/ei00211575/
