A 13-year-old Pinjarra girl shaved her locks on Sunday in front of friends and family, and beat her fundraising goal raising nearly $6000 for cancer research..
Carmella Sorgiovanni’s loved ones decked out Evolve Martial Arts studio, to watch and take part in the moment.
She has seen the effects cancer has had on her family, friends and community – especially the affect on the father’s first-cousin Rita Panebianco.
At the event, Ms Panebianco said it was a “very brave thing” and an emotional day for the family.
“We did a shave last year, but it was all adults,” she said.
“To see a young girl and family member do this is amazing.”
Ms Panebianco is in recovery after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016.
It’s something you can’t get through without the love and support of your family and friends.
- Rita Panebianco
“It’s something you can’t get through without the love and support of your family and friends,” she said.
“You just have to stay positive.
“It gets a bit crappy at times and it’s not an easy journey, but you always have family at the back of your mind.”
Ahead of the shave, Carmella raised funds for Breast Cancer Care WA through an online fundraising website and charity tins, located at different local businesses.
Carmella said she felt “liberated” after beating her $5000 fundraising goal, raising $5953.
“It feels so good,” she said.
“I honestly did not think that we would get there.
“Mum asked what my goal would be and I said $5000, thinking that was stupid.
“I am so thankful to everyone for their support.”
Carmella made special mention of local businesses including Pinjarra Hair Professionals, cafe Jarra Infusion and Evolve Martial Arts and Murray-Wellington MP Robyn Clarke.
For more information or to donate visit Carmella’s Facebook page – Beans is Going Bald for Cancer or her My Cause fundraising page.
