By Danielle Kutchel
At around 35 centimetres long, Harpa Cargill’s hair is an impressive sight.
But the long locks are for more than just looks; Harpa is getting ready to undergo the chop to raise money for cancer treatment.
The 12-year-old Cranbourne resident, who is school captain at Pearcedale Primary School, started growing his hair two years ago after hearing of a family friend who had been diagnosed with cancer.
He wanted to donate his hair to be made into a wig for someone who has lost theirs due to the disease, and has been raising funds over the past two years to donate to the National Breast Cancer Foundation to help find a cure.
So far he has raised almost $3000 for the cause – more than he had expected what with Covid impacting his original in-person fundraising plans.
As an added incentive, anyone who donates more than $50 to his fundraiser will go in the draw to be the one to shave half of Harpa’s head when he gets the clippers out in December.
Harpa said his twin sister has already “dibsed” shaving the other half.
Several of his friends have also saved up their pocket money and donated $50 to try and be the one to get the coveted shaving role.
Life with long hair has taken some getting used to; Harpa said he ties it back in a bun when he goes to school, and often wakes up with knots.
The worst part, he said, is “being called a girl all the time”.
One of the best things though is that his hair has grown faster than his sister’s and is now longer than hers.
It’s also allowed for some creative thinking when it comes to fundraising.
On his Facebook and Instagram page, Harpa has been posting different videos and pictures of his hair dressed up in kooky creations – from a coiffed bird’s nest complete with eggs, to a Medusa style with snakes, a fruit basket and even a drinks tower.
He hopes his enthusiasm will inspire others to donate to help reduce cancer.
“Every cent helps,” he said.
To donate to Harpa’s Hair, visit his Facebook or Instagram page, Harpa’s Hair, or donate at any Bendigo Bank.
You can also donate directly to Harpa’s Hair, BSB 633 000, account number 184 919 645.
