Crowds gathered at Montecasino to show their support for cancer sufferers and survivors in South Africa at this year’s CANSA Shavathon event. Due to the incredible response to CANSA Shavathon 2009, which saw over 200 workplaces and 137 shopping centres hosting events, the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), this year hosted its 7th annual event, which proved bigger and better than ever before.

This year, over 300 workplaces and 150 shopping centres took part in what is known as a nation-building initiative that unites young and old, rural communities and city slickers, in the fight against cancer. As usual, Montecasino was the place to be on Saturday, 6 March, as families and friends came to show their support and solidarity to cancer sufferers and survivors by either having their heads completely shaved, or spray-painted in bizarre colours. Those who chose to take the brave step of having their heads shaved by some of the Montecasino staff were rewarded not only with the prospect of having made a stand in the fight against cancer, but also with a free t-shirt from Montecasino.

Undoubtedly one of the big moments of this year’s CANSA Shavathon happened around midday at Montecasino when Jo Arderne, a 36-year-old mother from Allens Nek took the plunge, shaving off her beautiful shoulder-length hair as a small sacrifice to raise a little money for this worthy cause. “This year the reality of the cause struck home when my mother-in-law was diagnosed with bladder cancer.  The chemotherapy didn't work and, as a result, she had her bladder removed in the middle of February this year. As strong an old duck as she is, it has had a terrible effect on her both physically and emotionally. Sadly, we always think these things happen to someone else and we tend to discount how harsh and devastating this disease actually is. I decided that it was important to not only have a stated empathy for the sufferers and their support base, but to actually feel a small part of the pain and suffering they endure whilst raising awareness and funds to help in some small way,” says Jo.

In tribute to the many members of the public who shaved or sprayed at Montecasino, and to assist the CANSA Association in their fight against the disease, Montecasino donated a cheque for R20 000 to the CANSA Association.  Jo Arderne’s Shavathon Experience was documented on www.shavathon.webs.com, which was used to raise further funds in the form of donations.

ISSUED ON BEHALF OF MONTECASINO BY STRATEGIC PUBLIC RELATIONS. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT VINOLIA MOKHUTLE ON (011) 672 2037 OR E-MAIL vinolia@stratpr.co.za