A YOUNGSTER who wants to “help and care for everybody” has braved the shave to raise money for an extra special cause.
Florence Long, five, was cared for by London’s prestigious Royal Brompton Hospital after being born with a heart block which required her to have a pacemaker fitted.
And the Boxted St Peter’s Primary School student, who lives in Myland, Colchester, wanted to repay the hospital which has taken such great care of her throughout her life.
Florence, whose siblings Oliviyah, 17, and Hudson, four, also have pacemakers, has never had a hair cut before but spared more than 18 inches of her locks to The Little Princess Trust which provides wigs for children who have lost their hair due to cancer.
Read more: Breakthrough in Roman search just metres off High Street after days of digging
In doing so, she raised more than £1,400 which she will be donating to the Royal Brompton.
“She had always wanted to grow it out but last year decided she wanted to cut it,” said Florence’s proud mum, Rebecca.
“She wanted to go short and I thought it would be a waste to just throw away the hair, so I told her about The Little Princess Trust and she became so excited to help it and try to raise some money for the hospital at the same time.”
Rebecca, who works for her Colchester based, family business Whitnell Plant, added Florence “absolutely loves” her new look which has got rave reviews from her friends.
“She has seen pictures of her older sister in hospital and has seen what the hospital does in providing Christmas presents, entertainment and anything to look after the children.
“Florence has been so happy about being able to help and she absolutely loves the cut – for a five-year-old I can’t believe how excited she is.
“We are extremely proud of her for wanting to do something so big at such a young age. I was a bit worried she would change her mind but she was adamant she wanted to do it.
“She’s a timid little thing but she has so many friends and wants to help and care for everybody. We couldn’t be more proud of her.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel