Rhian Wilkinson's Official Website

RHIAN'S SOCCER JOURNALS:

NATIONAL TEAM SUPPORT IN "SHAVE TO SAVE" 26th October 2007

On Thursday, my father and I made the drive into Montreal to support my twin sister Sara in her participation in Montreal Radio Station's MIX 96 - "Shave to Save." October is Canada's National Breast Cancer Awareness month, and Sara is one among many who have joined in the fund raising drive.

Sara works as a pediatric nurse in the Montreal's Children's hospital, and she offered to have her head shaved as part of the Cancer Foundation's fund raising in the fight against breast cancer. Sara was really touched that the National Women's Team were so generous and supportive in making pledges. Just as impressive are the pledges that came from fans and supporters through this website - a big thank you to everyone.

We arrived in good time and walked up to the Children's Hospital. However, we had to wait for Sara's arrival - she had decided to have a haircut and shampoo - what a waste of money. Sara's original goal was to raise $2,000, but with all the support she has received, she has been able to donate over $5,000. Many people have been touched by this disease.

I have to admit that her hair did look good when she breezed in on her bicycle. She took us around the wards where she works, and by the time the big moment came, the reception area was filled with colleagues, physiotherapists, kitchen staff, friends, Cancer Foundation and Radio officials, patients and parents, Amy Walsh and me. There must have been well over 50 people there, and some were complete strangers.

Emotions were running high as colleagues gave Sara flowers; some were crying, and Nat, the radio host, introduced the players in the affair. A lady from the Cancer Foundation praised Sara for her courage, a supporter whispered in her ear, and the hairdresser from "La Coupe" lurked in the background like some executioner.

Then he started, and first came the sawing off of the ponytail. Then the shaving began in earnest and it was soon all done. Sara looked beautiful and put on the woolen hat I have been knitting for her during the last few days. Thank you everyone for supporting her and this charity.

Amy, Sara and I had lunch together, and it didn't take long for us to start laughing. The menu promised "all-day breakfast, toast, oeufs and poison." We didn't eat much!! Then it was on to Lululemon (where a poster of Amy was in the window); then home after an emotionally draining day!!