A HAIR-OIC care home cook who has battled cancer had her head shaved in front of residents for charity.

Karen Chapman and husband Les took on the chop at Cavendish Care Home in Clacton last week.

Cook Karen was diagnosed with breast cancer herself in 2013.

After undergoing treatment she is on the road to recovery, but has to remain symptom-free for another two years before she is given the all-clear.

Now Karen has braved the shave voluntarily to boost Macmillan Cancer Support.

She said: “I didn’t get a choice the first time round when I lost my hair because of the treatment, but this time it was on my terms.

“It was a shock when I was diagnosed but hopefully they caught it early enough.

“Being diagnosed with cancer changes your life completely. It has a real impact and changes how you see things.

“I wanted to do this when I saw Macmillan was doing it because they really are incredible.

“They are always on the end of the phone and it makes such a difference to have that support, not just for the sufferers but for their families too.”

Karen had her hair shaved off in front of the Cavendish residents.

She also persuaded husband Les to join her and get his hair and beard shaved.

Together they have raised more than £500.

Karen added: “The residents really enjoyed the whole event and they all felt my head afterwards.

“They still recognised me afterwards, which was the main thing that worried me!

“I’ve been here before so it doesn’t feel too strange to me. I just hope it raises some awareness and money to make a difference.

“People say you’re so brave, but it is just hair and it grows back.

“The real heroes are the people fighting the disease, and those they leave behind and have to carry on.

“I feel fortunate that I am still here, still working and still smiling and hopefully this will help others do the same.”