Every 27 minutes, someone is diagnosed with Lymphoma, the 5th most common type of cancer in the UK.
10 years ago, Andrew Foote was diagnosed with Low Grade Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, and was in remission for a few years after his diagnosis. Though not cured, he felt incredibly lucky being able to sail through treatment until the cancer was undetectable.
“Not only did I have an easy ride through the treatment program, during my time on watch-and-wait I rarely even thought of what might happen” he said “But I’ve always been a person with a glass half full.”
On February 6th 2022, Andrew was told a faint signature of his Lymphoma had returned, so he decided to let his hair grow out. A year later, Andrew contacted Heart of England Training to help him do the Big Hair Dare, a fundraiser dedicated to raise awareness of Lymphoma.
Andrew discovered the Big Hair Dare through Lymphoma Action, the UK’s only charity dedicated to Lymphoma, as he wanted to know how to donate his hair before starting his next chemo treatment.
Lymphoma Action have been providing trusted information and support for over 35 years, helping thousands of people affected by Lymphoma. Fundraisers make a vital contribution to the charity, as raising funds help them deliver much of their service.
The charity pointed Andrew towards one of their main fundraising challenges, The Big Hair Dare, letting him decide what he dares do to his hair. So, he took his next steps to begin his fundraising journey and contacted our Rugby Academy to book an appointment and Georgina, one of our learners, coloured his hair purple and turquoise. The logo colours of Lymphoma Action.
“Despite the feelings of nervous anticipation, my day with Heart of England Training was awesome.” he said “I had walked in blind. I had little idea of what was likely to happen, but Sheila – the resident instructor, explained everything, and encouraged me to ask questions if any came to mind.”
So, why did he want to partake in the fundraiser? Andrew said; “Why not, I have nothing to lose!”
A Big Hair Day at Heart of England Training
When asked about his experience at the academy, Andrew felt he had nothing but positive things to say, wanting to thank Georgina for doing such a good job.
“She had that air of self-confidence that immediately made me feel at ease, and as the day progressed, that confidence showed in her work. Here is a young lady who I am positive has a bright future ahead of her!”
“Using her obvious skills, she managed to transform me from an ordinary seventy-something year-old bloke, to a multi-coloured Ozzy Osbourne lookalike” he added “My wife’s words, not mine!”
Andrew also wanted to thank everyone at Heart of England Training for helping him to make it all possible.
“I owe a debt of thanks to everyone at Heart of England Training, and I hope I can do you proud with my fundraising efforts.”
“Thank you, thank you, thank you! You are simply wonderful people!”
Want to get involved?
If you wish to donate to Andrew’s fundraiser, you can find his fundraising page here: Andrew’s fundraiser for Lymphoma Action – JustGiving
Your donations will be fundamental for sharing Andrew’s story, and raising awareness of the many ways you can help make sure no one faces Lymphoma alone.
Do you dare take on the Big Hair Dare yourself or perhaps another fundraiser? Visit Lymphoma Action for more information and get involved to show your support.
