Staff member Emma McMillan has had her long locks trimmed for a cancer charity after being inspired by her mum, who also works with us.
Emma, a Higher Clerical Officer supporting the vaccination team at Muirhead Clinic, Cumbernauld, had 15 inches of her hair cut to donate it to The Little Princess Trust.
They provide free real hair wigs to children and young people up to the age of 24, who have lost their own hair through cancer treatment or other conditions. They also fund childhood cancer research searching to find kinder and more effective treatments, and Emma raised nearly £900 for them through sponsorship.
She explained she undertook the fundraising because her mum, Leigh McMillan, Assistant Operational Service Manager at Coathill Hospital, was diagnosed with cancer.
Emma said: “I decided I wanted to do a sponsored haircut and raise funds for the Little Princess Trust after my mum was diagnosed in 2022. She lost her hair after starting chemotherapy, which was incredibly upsetting.
“Mum received a prescription for a wig from the NHS and I saw first-hand how it massively improved her confidence.
“My hair is something I took for granted, I couldn’t imagine how difficult it would be losing my hair at the age of 23, never mind being as young as some of the recipients this amazing charity supports.
“Being so young and having to try to comprehend being unwell, treatment and side effects is difficult enough without having to worry about losing your hair.
“I’m so thankful to everyone who sponsored me and donated to The Little Princess Trust. I had 15 inches of my hair cut and raised an amazing £890!
“It costs £700 to provide one child or young person with a real hair wig so I am delighted to have raised enough to cover the cost of making my hair into a wig. I hope it makes a difference.”
Leigh said: “I am so very proud of Emma. She supported me unconditionally throughout my illness which I know couldn’t have been easy for her.
“Emma’s compassion, encouragement and kindness helped me more than she knows.”
