Four Donegal ladies have decided to take on an admirable challenge and shave their heads for charity later this month.
Debbie Houston from Milford and Letterkenny women, Sonia McGarvey, Stephanie McCole and Kerrie Duffy will shave their heads to raise funds for three charities; Donegal Hospice, Pieta House and The Alzheimer Society of Ireland.
All four women work in the Stroke and Medical Rehabilitation Unit at Letterkenny University Hospital.
They have been inspired by personal experiences to take on the challenge, and are showing great enthusiasm for the upcoming event.
The fundraising event takes place on Saturday, 12th November in Arena 7 at 9pm and members of the public are invited to come along and show their support.
Mum of three, Debbie Houston is one of the women taking part in the charity head shave: “I work as an Occupational Therapy Assistant at LUH and my charity is Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland Donegal Branch.
“I’ve had a personal experience of Alzheimer’s within my family and have witnessed the devastating effect that the disease has on an individual and their families.”
Stephanie McCole has three daughters and is a Physiotherapy Assistant at LUH: “My chosen charity is the Donegal Hospice because cancer has claimed the lives of many of my dear family and close friends.
“I’ve experienced first-hand the vital role that the Donegal Hospice plays in providing patients with comfort care and dignity on their final journey and would be delighted to do anything I can to support them.”
Physio Assistant at LUH, Kerrie Duffy is a mum of three and has selected Pieta House as her charity: “Unfortunately, most people are unaware that someone is suffering in silence from depression until they commit suicide. Donegal has been hit particularly hard and I believe people could really benefit from the services of Pieta House.”
Mum of two, Sonia McGarvey recently returned to work as an Occupational Therapist in the Stroke and Medical Rehab Unit in LUH after a career break: “When my friend and work colleague Debbie told me about the charity head shave, I was struck by their enthusiasm and inspired by the charities. Before I knew it, I had offered my mass of unruly hair!
“I lost a dear friend, Noreen Diver, to cancer in January and I can just imagine what she would have to say. Another work colleague has come through cancer treatment, so it really is in part respect to them both and in the hope of raising much needed funds for the Donegal Hospice, Pieta House and the Alzheimer’s Society, which are all close to my heart.”
Sponsorship cards are available from Debbie Houston on 086 3153243 or via the Go Fund Me page, www.gofundme.com (search