After 17 years as a hairdresser, Aileen decided to ditch her luscious locks in a bid to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation through World’s Greatest Shave.
Aileen is a Campbell Page client from Taylors Lakes who, after obtaining an injury, was left unable to continue working full time in her chosen field. While attending appointments with Campbell Page, Aileen found out her Aunt had been diagnosed with Leukaemia.
It was such a shock, and I wanted to help in any way I could. That’s when I decided to participate in the World’s Greatest Shave to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation.
Giving has always been somewhat of a family trait. With Aileen’s Father promptly putting his hand up to be her Aunt’s bone marrow donor, she felt even more of a need to shed light on the disease and raise money to assist researchers in finding a cure.
Everyone has said to me, “This is a huge deal Are you sure you want to shave your head?” My reply has always been simple – “Yes, because at the end of the day it isn’t about me and my choice. It’s about trying to help the foundation and the people who don’t have a choice in the matter”.
Throughout all of this Aileen has remained focused on finding a job, ideally within the hairdressing industry because of her passion, skills and 17 years worth of experience in the field.
I’m looking at all of my options. I know I can’t go back to working in a salon full time because of my condition, but I’m thinking that maybe starting my own business through the NEIS Program and Campbell Page might be the answer as I will have more flexibility in my hours. That might be down the track though. I’ve also thought about looking into becoming a Sales Representative in the industry. I’m certainly not giving up that is for sure.
You are an inspiration Aileen – never give up!
The World’s Greatest Shave is one of Australia’s most iconic fundraising events, where people of all ages shave or colour their hair to raise money to emotionally and practically support the families of people with blood cancer, and provide funding to vital research. If you wish to donate, Aileen is still raising money through this link until June 2017: http://my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/aileenlichoudaris
Campbell Page is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to transforming people’s. If you would like to find out more about us please visit our website or contact us directly.
Words by: Tiarne Pattison
