Kristin Boese: Great Shave for Charity Event

Posted 16 March 2009

Ed. Note:Although we think this would be more interesting if Kristin had actually shaved her own head instead of just dying it a temporary shade of green that makes it look like she's been swimming all summer in a chlorinated pool (I looked like that naturally the summer before 9th grade), we do have to commend her for getting out there and supporting the national charities. And she's probably right ... her OTHER sponsors ... not us, certainly! ... would probably pull her sponsorships if she did, especially the one for the hair-care products, so it's probably best that she didn't :)

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Kiteboarders in general seem to be people who enjoy life to the fullest and think about having fun most of the time. While this is surely important and part of a healthy lifestyle, I also feel that it is important to remember that not everyone is as lucky as we are, that there are people out there who are not as healthy, as wealthy or as strong as we are - people that need our help. That's why I listened up when I heard that two of my friends here in Western Australia were going to shave their heads for the "World's Greatest Shave" this weekend.

The "Worlds Greatest Shave"http://www.worldsgreatestshave.com/ is Australia's biggest fundraising event. It has been taking place every year since 1998 and is the equivalent to the American "Locks of Love." Throughout the years more than 100,000 participants have raised over 80 Million Australian Dollars and show no signs of slowing down. The money raised goes to the Leukemia Foundation and will be used for patients with leukaemias, lymphonmas, myeloma and related blood disorders. The foundation sets an international benchmark in the care and support of patients and their families and also funds research into better treatment and cures.

I had actually been thinking about donating my hair last year when I was in the Gorge during the "Locks of love" event but ended up donating in a different way and only cutting my hair a little. Because I had "chickened" out like this, I was incredibly amazed by the braveness of people and the actions taken at "Cushes and Justines Shaving Party" here in Margaret River this past weekend.

After an afternoon full of preparation, the kids started off the craziness and all had their hair sprayed with bright colors. But soon the serious action started and Justine had her head shaved first. As she had never had short hair before she was obviously quite nervous but you could also see the determination her face and the hair was off in no time. Next up was Cush and even though her hair was quite short already, bald is still pretty bold and Cush was nervous too but did not hesitate.

The vibe was great, everybody was extremely supportive and willing to donate for a good cause and for these brave people.

To support the girls and to loosen up the evening a bit their friend Guy permanently died his hair pink AND had this legs (lower and upper!) completely waxed! Ouch! That must have hurt!

Next to the hair action, Cush and Justine had thought of many other things to collect money for the Leukaemia Foundation. There were funny games and a raffle and the evening was a real success not only for them but for everyone who took part in it and especially for the cause.

I am really proud of Cushia, Justin and Guy. It's great to see that normal everyday people can a big difference when they put their minds to it and I hope they raise even more money with their website: my.imisfriendraising.com.au

And still being a chicken I had to at least spray my hair green for the night to show my support ... maybe in a few years time I will be brave enough to go all the way.

Ed. Note:Dear Kristin: We sure hope so! Be sure to send us pictures!