More than a trim for a good cause

SUGA Neelavanin and daughters, Nivash, Kartie and Nive banded together on Saturday morning to cut their hair for the benefit of others.

Since late July, Mrs Neelavanin has raised $1000 for Ballarat Hospice Care, encouraging her friends and the city to sponsor the chop, but that’s not the only charity her family is assisting.

Her long locks have been donated to Variety to make wigs for people experiencing cancer treatment, while Nivash, Kartie and Nive’s hair will be given to a not-for-profit chosen by their peers at Black Hill Primary School.

“Our friends and the Ballarat community have been very supportive of us,” Mrs Neelavanin said.

“I’m happy to give support to Ballarat Hospice Care because they look after elderly people and provide palliative care.”

Twelve-year-old, Nivash had a lot of fun last weekend, working with her sisters and mum on the special project.

“I was nervous at the start, but as soon as I cut my hair, I calmed down a bit,” she said.

“It felt good to get rid of all that hair. I feel a lot lighter. Once our hair was in bags, I lifted them all up and they were so heavy.”

At seven years old, Nive was excited about changing her hairstyle, while helping others.

“I couldn’t wait until I cut my hair. Once we were finished, I kept playing with my hair because it was so short, and spiky at the back. I loved feeling it,” she said.

Ten-year-old Kartie was “proud of my family” for donating their hair and generating money.

“It’s for a good cause. We did a pretty good job,” she said.

This is the second time the family has organised to have their hair cut for wigs.