Community & Business
4 April, 2024
Making a difference
Garry Mann underwent the ultimate act of support for the Leukaemia Foundation recently, shaving his head and beard for the World’s Greatest Shave, in a fitting tribute to his late cousin.
For over 25 years, the World’s Greatest Shave has brought together thousands of Australians every year, that transforms a strand of hair into a symbol of hope, and a future free of blood cancer.
More than just a fundraiser, Mr Mann’s personal loss inspired him to make a difference, in order to bring awareness, support and care to those battling blood cancer.
He first took part in the World’s Greatest Shave three years ago, with two friends, in support of his cousin, Paul Verblakt, who was diagnosed with leukaemia and had lost his hair during cancer treatment.
Only twelve months later, Paul died.
Since that day, Mr Mann refused to cut his hair, or shave his beard.
It wasn’t a conscious decision, Mr Mann said, until 18 months later when he decided he was going to do it for a worthy cause.
“I had a lot of guys at work say ‘when are you going to have a shave, or cut your hair?’
“I would tell them, ‘when I’m ready.’
“I wanted to make it mean something,” Mr Mann said.
The date was set, and Mr Mann received overwhelming support from friends, family, and local businesses.
“It really has blown me away, the support I’ve been given.
“Especially from Shane and Tracy [Pittsworth IGA].
“I’d also like to thank the raffle prize donors, Ashton’s Butchery, Pittsworth Hotel Motel and Bottlebrush Café.
“It’s incredible what people are donating.
“It really is a wonderful community,” he said.
At the end of last week, Mr Mann had raised a total of $3,900.
The Leukaemia Foundation is one of Australia’s most trusted charities, made up of patients, carers, healthcare professionals, researchers, specialists and an army of supporters like the legendary World’s Greatest Shave family.
They offer life-changing support, fund leading-edge research, and campaign for change, alongside the community.
Thanks to the hairy sacrifice of the World’s Greatest Shave community, the foundation is able to give practical and emotional support, care and information, so patients don’t just survive blood cancer, but thrive.
Mr Mann’s courageous act unites him as one of many local heroes, making a positive impact, and standing in solidarity with people facing blood cancer.
Donations can still be made up until the end of June, via the QR code on flyers at the IGA, or on Mr Mann’s Facebook page.
