A Newtownabbey woman is preparing to brave the shave this weekend by cutting off her beautiful long locks in support of the Northern Ireland Children's Hospice.
Kind-hearted Louise Crawford was inspired to take on the challenge after watching loved ones face a battle with cancer.
Mum-of-four Louise, 37, sadly lost her father, Andrew (Andy) to cancer just over five years ago at just 52 and she is also mourning the recent passing of a close friend to the same disease.
Read more: NI nurse backs calls for new palliative care strategy after dad's final illness
"I've always wanted to shave my hair off for a cancer charity but I couldn't decide which one," Louise told Belfast Live.
"I lost my dad to throat cancer in May 2017 and that became my drive. My dad also lost his mum and dad to cancer so it runs through the family.
"I've also lost a friend to cancer in the past few days and she was just 35 so I wanted to do something in memory of all those who have fought the disease, whether they've lost or won that battle. It's a cruel world that we live in - one day you're here and the next you're not.
"Over the summer I came across a story on social media about the Children's Hospice and the vital service it provides to all families that need it within our wee country. Reading these stories really broke my heart as I'm a mum to four kids.
"When I started researching I discovered that it's the only service of its kind in Northern Ireland. It cares for over 370 babies, children and young people each year at a dedicated children's in-patient unit at Horizon House, which is only down the road from me, and in local communities through the Specialist Community Nursing Team.
"The work also extends to families, supporting them from the point of diagnosis right through to the grieving period after bereavement. The Children's Hospice receives a small amount of government funding, so they rely on the generosity of our local community to help them to continue to deliver a vital service."
Louise added: "Many children in our communities have received vital care from the NI Children's Hospice and their support to families is second to none.
"That made me decide that I would like to raise money to help all families who need that support so the Hospice is able to give it when needed. I've set a target of £2,000 and while I know it's a hard time for everyone right now, I'm grateful for any donation I receive."
Jays Barber Club has kindly volunteered to shave Louise's hair off at 3pm this Saturday, November 12th.
"My hair is pretty long at this stage but I always say that you should love people and not things. I like my hair but I don't love it as it's just a materialistic thing so I'm willing to shave it off for a great cause," she added.
"We should share a lot of love for those children and their families. My hair will grow back but will these families get precious time back with their loved ones to make amazing memories with the help of the Hospice?"
To help the NI Children's Hospice continue to care for more families, you can donate to Louise's fundraiser here.
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