André’s chopped locks raise over £1,000 for Stroke Association Jersey

When had his first haircut in years, he decided his sacrifice ought to be for a good cause.

Both his parents had strokes, so as André’s foot-long locks fell away he raised £1,049 for the Stroke Association Jersey to help its work supporting stroke survivors.

André, who lives in St Brelade and works at The Surfyard at St Ouen’s Bay, said: “After seeing the terrible life-changing impact that strokes had on both my parents, I decided to shave my head to help raise much needed donations for the Stroke Association Jersey.

“Both my parents had strokes in their later lives. It affected both of them quite badly and it was a horrible thing to see.

“My mother Josephine was in care at Overdale as she had some health issues. She suffered multiple strokes, each time she lost a little more function it was heart breaking. The staff at Overdale were amazing.

“My father Micheal was in hospital for an eye test when he had his stroke and so fortunately he was treated very quickly. He recovered quickly but was never quite the same.

“It knocked his confidence a lot. The Stroke Association helped so much with him getting home, having support and being able to regain his confidence.

“In my previous job you couldn't really grow your hair too long, so when I changed job I grew it out.

“When I decided to cut it off, I thought ‘hey, why not try and raise some funds for the Stroke Association’.

“My hair was cut by Bleue from Hair with Bleue at Amorella in St Helier. She did it for free which was amazing. Thanks Bleue!

“Then I donated my hair to the Little Princess Trust, which uses the hair to make wigs for children going through cancer treatment and hair loss.

“I have noticed it being a bit chilly without my hair but nothing a good beanie won't sort. It's definitely a lot quicker having a shower now and think I will keep it short for a while. Most comments have been ‘wow you look different’ and positive on a whole.”

Marvin White, from the Stroke Association’s fundraising team, said: “We’re hugely grateful to Andre for choosing to raise funds in this unusual way.

“Our specialist support, research and campaigning are only possible with the courage and determination of the stroke community and the generosity of our supporters. With more donations and support, we can help rebuild even more lives.”

The charity’s Jersey Stroke Recovery Service works with stroke survivors and their families to identify their personal support needs and priorities, helping them regain confidence and independence, and rebuild their life after stroke.”

To find out more about the Stroke Association’s Jersey Stroke Recovery Service go to https://www.stroke.org.ukor call Trudi Lewis on 07829 845086