In honour of a big man with a big heart
While more than a decade has passed since Caroline lost her husband, Patrick, to cancer, she still feels that loss – especially on days of significance. So, when what would have been Patrick’s 50th birthday approached, Caroline chose a meaningful way to mark the occasion.
“This year, in honour of Patrick’s 50th birthday, I will be shaving my head to raise money for cancer research and support the Cancer Council,” she shared on her fundraising page.
“My hair is currently a little over 40cm long. I’ll be chopping it off and donating the ponytail to Sustainable Salons, so it can be used to make wigs for people who have lost their hair through illness and treatment. I’ve got a lot of hair and I haven’t had it short in over 18 years!”
Setting up a fundraiser in honour of Patrick, Caroline’s goal was to raise $5000. She went on to raise $6500 from friends and family keen to honour “the “gentle giant with a soft squishy heart of gold” as described by one donor.
“Patrick was a big man with a cheeky grin and a wicked sense of humour,” Caroline shared.
“When he became a star in heaven his little people were only three and five years old. It’s been 13 years since he passed away and those little people are all but grown.
“Patrick never cared much for hair, hair styles or having the latest hair do. He went from having dreadlocks to a crew-cut in the space of an afternoon. And of all the possible side effects chemotherapy had to offer, he would have taken hair loss if he’d had the choice.”
Patrick died on 15 December 2009, four years after his cancer diagnosis and has been greatly missed by all those who knew him.
“Cancer is a cruel and unforgiving disease that plays no favourites and shows no mercy,” shared Caroline.
“Patrick’s 50th birthday would be on June 18 2023, so on this day I’ll shave my head - in support of those fighting cancer and to remember Patrick.”
