A Brisbane local has signed up for the World’s Greatest Shave, and her drag queen friends are pitching in to help fundraise for the important cause.
The long-running annual event by the Leukaemia Foundation raises money to support those diagnosed with blood cancer.
More than 50 Australians are diagnosed each day with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and other related blood disorders.
Nivek Espig (pictured right) says her best friend’s father was sadly among them. He was recently diagnosed with leukaemia.
“In support of him and his diagnosis, I registered with World’s Greatest Shave to shave my head and raise money,” she said.
Nivek runs a drag business in Brisbane and as a result is heavily involved in the city’s drag and queer scene.
She told her friend, drag star Justine Deeva (pictured left), about the plans. Justine had a great idea.
“Justine suggested we turn it into a big event at a venue to raise more funds,” she said.
So on Saturday, July 31, Nivek is shaving her head at The Wickham in Brisbane from 10pm. And she wants you to join her.
That night from 6pm, entry to the Fortitude Valley venue is a gold coin donation towards Nivek’s fundraising.
On the night, people can donate $20 and have their hair shaved.
They can also donate $5 to have their hair coloured with hairspray.
“Two hairdressers from Fortitude Valley are donating their time to do the shaving and colouring on the night,” Nivek said.
Why you should donate to the World’s Greatest Shave
At the Wickham on July 31, Nivek wants everyone to wear blue and orange, the World’s Greatest Shave campaign colours.
“A handful of local businesses have donated prizes to be raffled off throughout the night,” she said.
“Justine is hosting, and other Brisbane drag queens are donating their time with some great performances throughout the night.”
Find out more at the Wickham’s Facebook event page here.
Nivek says her World’s Greatest Shave donation goal is $500, and would love to raise even more.
“We really want to raise as much money as much money as we can,” she said.
“Every dollar will help support these people, who are all going through such a tough time.”
The Leukaemia Foundation’s Rachael Lance explains money raised supports both cancer research and Australians diagnosed with blood cancer.
“You’re ensuring families facing blood cancer have someone to turn to every step of the way, access to the best possible care and treatment and a place to call home during treatment,” she said.
“Whether you have a personal connection to blood cancer or simply want to have fun and raise money for a good cause, join the World’s Greatest Shave.
“Let’s make it the best year yet.”
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