Out & About
Fundraiser a cut above
In 2005, Lisa Deer underwent surgery for a brain tumour. Thirteen years on, the Blenheim beauty therapist has bravely lobbed off 21 inches of her hair to raise money for Ronald McDonald House South Island – the place she and her mum describe as a ‘haven’ through the 45 nights they spent here over three years.
“It was so homely. For me it was like there were so many other young people there who seemed happy and relaxed within the walls of Ronald McDonald House,” says Lisa.
“It was like being with family.”
Lisa sold her tresses to wigmakers Freedom Hair in Dunedin, has set up a Givealittle page and fundraised around her community, so far totalling more than $900 in donations.
Lisa’s mum, Janice Thompsett says she doesn’t know what she and her daughter would have done without the House.
“It was a lovely, safe, quiet place to come to,” says Janice.
“Ronald McDonald House was there for Lisa and our family during that time and for all subsequent hospital check-ups… this is Lisa’s way of giving back.”
Our CEO, Mandy Kennedy says seeing Lisa happy and healthy more than ten years after she stayed at the House is “very, very special.”
“We’re so grateful to Lisa for her courage and to everyone supporting her for making such a generous donation,” Mandy says.
