Those who know me know that I absolutely adore my hair. I take great pride in my luscious mane and it’s part of my identity. And so I’ve now decided to chop it all off… if you help me raise money for causes close to my heart. One of my best friends died in a horrific and senseless act of domestic violence when she was murdered by her partner. She was only 23 years old. In 2016, 71 women lost their lives through acts of domestic violence in Australia. This is an absolutely shocking figure that should not exist anywhere, let alone a progressive and developed country such as ours. Changes are being made, but unfortunately not quick enough. Domestic Violence Victoria (DV Vic) is the peak body for family violence services for women and children in Victoria. They advocate and provide advice to the government with and on behalf of survivors and their family members. DV Vic also influences policy, legislation and community attitudes and with the funds I raise, DV Vic will work to enhance services available to those experiencing domestic violence and raise community awareness. Another cause that I am supporting is The National Stem Cell Foundation of Australia (NSCFA) and money raised will go towards much needed stem cell research and technology for as yet untreatable diseases. Like I mentioned before, I love my hair and so I don’t want to cut it all off if I am not able to reach my goal. However, depending on how much money I can raise I will cut off a predetermined length.. the more you give, the more I chop. $1,250- 20cm $2,500- 40cm $3,750- 60cm $5,000- SHAVE MY HEAD! As an added bonus, if I reach my goal of $5,000, 72cm of my hair (yes, I really have that much hair on my head!) will be going to Variety’s Wigs for Kids program for children who have lost their hair due to a medical treatment. Loss of hair can have a deep psychological effect on children and adolescents and Variety aims to decrease this by providing wigs and other services to the children. On March 19th, I will be shaving my hair if I reach my goal of $5,000, which could help a child with cancer, assist a woman end her domestic violence situation or find a cure for a human disease. So please please please be kind and reach deep into your pockets to donate what you can so that we can all help make a difference. Love, (Hopefully soon to be bald) Ridhima