ON BEHALF of Macmillan Cancer Support in Wales, I would like to thank all those who have stood in solidarity with people affected by cancer by shaving off their hair this summer as part of our Brave The Shave campaign.

As well as helping to raise awareness of cancer, sponsorship from family and friends will help to fund Macmillan’s work in supporting people living with cancer and beyond.

Across the UK, more than 21,000 people have shaved their heads for Macmillan so far this year. Their efforts have raised an incredible £2.25 million – with the amount continuing to rise as more people take on the challenge.

Here in Wales, more than 19,000 people are diagnosed with cancer every year.

Many of them will experience hair loss and changes to their appearance that can affect everything from the way they look to how they feel. Macmillan supports people practically, emotionally and financially, so that no one faces cancer alone.

By braving the shave and raising money, these volunteers are helping Macmillan to give people with cancer the specialised support they need, when they need it most. We would like to extend our thanks to these volunteers and all who have sponsored them.

The money raised by Brave The Shave will help to pay for Macmillan professionals supporting people affected by cancer, including our specialist cancer nurses, welfare benefits advisers, speech therapists, physiotherapists and dieticians.

Although our campaign has been running during August, you can Brave The Shave at any time throughout the year. For more information, visit our website bravetheshave.org.uk

For information or support from Macmillan, call us free on 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm) or visit macmillan.org.uk

Susan Morris

Head of services

Macmillan Cancer Support in Wales