Trio’s bald move to help out mate

Shaving your head might seem like a big deal to some, but not to three folk from Strathalbyn Christian College.

They know it’s nothing compared to what student Bjorn Tranquim faces every day.

The 14-year-old is undergoing a medical trial for a rare blood disorder in California.

Bjorn’s family have relocated to the US for the duration of his treatment, and are unable to work during their stay.

It’s the cost of everyday living that’s inspired Angus Davidson, Thomas Short and teacher’s aid Helen Arundell to raise a few extra bucks to help the family.

The three will brave the shave on Thursday in the hope of collecting gold coin donations or visits to the GoFundMe page set up in Bjorn’s name.

The trio have raised more than $700, but are aiming for much more.

Mrs Arundell, who is married to the school’s principal, said the shave would be an easy thing to do if it meant helping the Tranquim family.

“Compared to what they’re facing each day, shaving a bit off the top of my head really isn’t hard, especially if it means raising a few extra dollars, ” she said.

“I’m looking forward to having more time in the mornings.

“I was blow-drying my hair yesterday and thinking ‘wow this will be nice not to have to do every day’.

“But really, it’s a small thing to do for such a lovely family and I’m glad to be helping out.”

Bjorn has been undergoing stem cell treatment for adrenoleukodystrophy at the University of California in Los Angeles, along with chemotherapy and transfusions of his own blood cells.

The treatment meant the little battler has had to part with his brilliant curly hair, which gave Angus the extra push to take part in the shave.

“Bjorn was feeling a bit self-conscious about having no hair so I thought I’d show him it’s nothing to worry about, ” he said.

“So myself, Tom and Bjorn will all be shaved together.

“It’s not like I really spend much time on it anyway, so it’ll be nice having it off.

“But the point is to show Bjorn we’re here for him.”

To donate to Bjorn’s fundraiser, visit www.gofundme.com/blessingsforbjorn

You can find out more by contacting the school on 9938 9100.