Deniliquin John shaves to ‘give back’

While his journey with cancer is not over yet, John and his partner Julie Watson felt it was time to give back.

Julie has arranged an event during which John will have his head and beard shaved to raise money, this Friday at the Coach House Hotel.

It will take place following the return of the raffles for the Edward River Fishing and Camping Group, of which John is co-captain.

Since the diagnosis, John has completed radiation treatment and is now halfway through his chemotherapy journey.

Supporting him through that journey has been the team behind Deniliquin Can Assist, who not only provide emotional support but provide assistance with costs associated with treatment.

Transport and accommodation are usually the biggest costs, but financial support is also available for any other expenses and costs, including pharmacy costs.

John said being able to “pay it forward” will help others around town and beyond to access the treatment they need.

“For Can Assist, they help so many people around the area, this is a small way to pay it forward and help others,” he said.

Can Assist Deniliquin has been helping locals affected by cancer since 2017.

Since then, it has relied on donations from the community to achieve its vision, which president Kellie Crossley says is “for every country community, family and individual to have equitable access to cancer care and support services”.

John said as well as the money raised from his shave, all proceeds from Friday night’s raffle will be donated to Can Assist.

He said up for grabs will be meat trays, fruit and vegetable boxes and more.

Each has been donated by local businesses who just want to help out, John said.

Raffle tickets will go on sale from 6pm, with the head shave to follow from about 7.30pm.

Wielding the clippers will be qualified barber Nat Brown, from Nat’s Barber Shop.