A Port Stephens teenager is saying goodbye to her signature long hair for a cause close to her heart.
Thirteen-year-old Kyla Wilkins, from Corlette, will cut off her hair on Friday 24 July to donate it for wigs made for children with cancer.
She has also raised more than $1,500 for the cause, tripling her original fundraising goal of $500.
Wilkins said she had always had long hair, with it reaching her tailbone, but wanted to put it to good use.
“I thought if I’m cutting it, I could help another kid with cancer because they don’t get a choice to lose their hair,” she said.
“I thought another child could have confidence from it.”
Wilkins’ decision was inspired by her grandmother’s cancer diagnosis in 2021 and a friend who donated her own hair last year.
Despite the big change, she said she was more excited than nervous.
“I’ve had long hair pretty much my whole life, but I’m really looking forward to it,” she said.
When she launched the fundraiser, Wilkins wasn’t sure she would even reach her $500 target.
Instead, the community rallied behind her, helping her raise more than $1,500.
“It means a lot,” she said.
“I never expected so many people to donate and I’m really thankful.”
Wilkins has also shared her fundraising journey with her Year 7 classmates, who have praised her efforts.
She hopes her donation will bring happiness to a child facing cancer treatment.
“My hair will grow back, but they don’t get a choice to lose theirs,” she said.
The haircut will take place at home after school on Friday, with family and friends gathering to support her.
Her mum, Lauren, will do the honours after encouraging Wilkins to take some time to think about the decision before committing.
Wilkins said she would encourage other young people to get involved in their communities if they had the chance.
“If you can help someone, you should,” she said.
“I hope it helps the other kids a lot.”
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