Hannah Mcilwrath used to tress to impress. Now she sports a fabulous new look after having her head shaved…and it was all for charity.
Brave mum-of-three Hannah, who is married to Kevin, has raised £3,000 and rising in a fund-raising effort which saw her have 19 inches off beautiful locks chopped to boost charities including Chichester’s St Wilfrid’s Hospice.
The fund-raising event took place on July 9 at Pond Barn Sports Bar & Carvery, Bracklesham, and saw Hannah shorn amidst a party atmosphere and backdrop of merriment.
Music teacher Hannah, who works at Horndean Technology College, explained: “I was a bit apprehensive and actually cried in the morning in the kitchen but the whole even was amazing.
“People were so generous and I appreciate the support so much. It means we can give at least £1,000 each to St Wilfrid’s, Snowdrop Trust and the RNLI. And the hair that was cut off is going to the Little Princess Trust.”
Hannah says there are so many people to thank who backed the event, including her family. Her daughter Isabella, 11, has raised £150 on her own by having her hair cut to a bob. A magical moment came when Hannah saw son Rufus, who is three, and he simply rubbed her shaved head and laughed. Daughter Violet, five, must have been a tad perplexed at the sight of her new-look mum, too!
Hannah has also heaped praise on other people and companies who helped so much on the day. She added: “Tool Dogs came and set up a huge dome (largest in Europe) which is a setting to practice your plastering skills! They did all of this for free, came all the way from London, raised money, entertained people and create an amazing vibe!
“Lauren Chater, the hairdresser is an up-and-coming stylist. She is still studying at Chichester College but has so, so, so much potential so huge thanks to her. She is always winning awards and college so am proud to have had her shave my hair. She will also be colouring it next week.
“My friend Laura Burrows sang, she is has a link to Sussex Snowdrop in that she is a member of a family that they have been involved with so it’s close to her heart. She is a beautiful talent.
“And my best friend Becky who also shaved her head, has Snowdrop links too. Her son Josh had open-heart surgery two years ago and Snowdrop where so amazing with them. They are such an amazing charity.
“And thanks also to Debs Morgan, my beautiful friend, who has been a superstar. Her mum died last Monday and she soldiered on making cakes for me, making decorations, tweeting like it gone out of fashion. Her soul is beautiful. St Wilfrid’s have been there for her.
“And a big shout to excellent photographer Ashleigh Black, who captured the event and who I would highly recommend!”
You can still donate, search “chop off the locks” at Gofundme.com
