Small country school has big heart
THEY say where there's a will there's a way. And there certainly was a way for this small community with a heart of gold to support someone in need.
Recently Wheatvale State School teacher Nikki Malone was diagnosed with leukemia.
In order to support his co-worker and friend, principal Peter Cuskelly decided he was going to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation.
"I really wanted to get behind Nikki when she was going through such a tough time," he said.
"I think it's important for the children to support her as well.
"Raising money for the Leukaemia Foundation is such a great cause."
Last Friday morning, surrounded by the entire Wheatvale State School community Mr Cuskelly surrendered his brown locks to the clippers.
Hair Kreations stylists Natalie and Maddy kindly donated their time and skills to help with the shave.
Wheatvale State School students were also encouraged to embrace the theme of the day, coming with coloured, weird and wonderful hairstyles.
Some children had orange hair, some had feathers and bows and others had impressive mohawks.
Mr Cuskelly said the day was all about raising more money for the foundation.
"We asked each child to come to school with crazy hair and a gold coin donation," he said.
"We even had prizes.
"I had a goal in mind of raising about $200.
"But we absolutely smashed that goal and have successfully raised over $1200 for the cause.
"I'm so surprised with the amount. It's absolutely fantastic," he said.
Nikki Malone said she was thrilled with the amount of support she had received from the school community.
"I am very much appreciative; it's nice to know that they are thinking of me," she said.
"It's a great cause to donate to. The money does go towards research.
"If I had been diagnosed with the disease seven years ago things would have been so different for me.
"With the amount of money donated to the foundation it means they are able use the money to improve treatment."
To donate to the Leukaemia Foundation go to leukaemia.org.au.
