Singleton-local Jayden Dagg raised an incredible $4,300 by shaving his hair for the Cancer Council to aid in the research for cures as well as education and prevention efforts.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Inspired by his mother, Alison Dagg, a familiar face to the Singleton Heights Public School community, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in March this year.
Since, the mother of two has undergone chemotherapy, two surgeries and has recently commenced her second round of chemotherapy as well as radiation therapy.
"Obviously, it's not the nicest news to receive, being diagnosed with cancer," Jayden told the Singleton Argus.
According to the Cancer Council's statistic and facts, one in three Australian men and one in four Australian women will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 75.
About one in seven Australian females are diagnosed with breast cancer in their life time - that's roughly 20,000 women a year.
"For us, cancer has been something that has heavily affected our family, both sides of my family have had experienced it in one way or another," Jayden said.
Since the diagnosis, Jayden has been eager to shave his head in dedication to Cancer Awareness Month (October) and has had the time in lockdown to grow his curls out.
"I am quite vein about my hair, I usually get it cut every four weeks, so this was a big deal for me," said Jayden whilst laughing.
"But it's just hair and it will grow back."
Jayden admits that through all, Alison has been an absolute trooper throughout the process.
"She has definitely handled it with a smile on her face, there are some bad days, but overall she has had a very positive attitude and we all admire her for that."
The nineteen year old posted the fundraiser online last Wednesday and since has received many donations from organisations and members of the community.
In a week, Jayden has managed to raise over $4000 so fair which will be donated to the Cancer Council to go towards their efforts of finding a cure in education and early prevention.
"Mum was very fortunate to detect the cancer early herself which helped stop the progression of growth, so I really want the funds to go towards helping educate people about early detection. What signs to look for etc."
Jayden would like to thank everyone who has made a donation, especially his two employers Bakers Delight Singleton and Bottrell Business Consultants who both made very generous donations.
"I am quite overwhelmed by the amount of donations I have received in such a short amount of time," he said.
"My initial goal was only $1,000 and it is over $4,000, which is just incredible."
As of Wednesday, when the Argus went to print, $4,308 had been raised.
If you would like to make a donation to Jayden Dagg, visit www.doitforcancer.com.au/fundraisers/jaydendagg.