'My way of giving something back': Sheila, 79, braves the shave for children with cancer
Castleford Lodge Care Home resident, Sheila Gittings, has taken part in a fundraising initiative in support of Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity.
Sheila, 79, completed a head shave last week, surrounded by support from fellow residents and the care team, in a moment that brought the wider home community
together in recognition of her chosen charity and personal motivation to support children receiving cancer treatment.
Sheila chose the head shave as a personal way to contribute to the charity, following her own experiences of cancer treatment and her admiration for the resilience shown by children undergoing care.
"Cancer took away my mobility, and I’m not able to do much, so this head shave is my way of giving something back,” said Sheila.
“I’ve seen children in hospital going through treatment, and they still carry on smiling, laughing and playing - it makes you put things into perspective, I knew I needed to do
something to support them.”
Originally from London, Sheila worked as a dressmaker before later building a career in a dental laboratory making dentures.
She continues to enjoy knitting, a lifelong passion she has pursued since being taught the craft by her grandfather at the age of four.
She is known for crafting hats and gloves for premature babies, which the home donates to local hospitals across Yorkshire.
The activity was warmly supported across the home, with residents and care colleagues coming together on the day to encourage Sheila and congratulate her on her selfless act.
Sarah Golden-Hill, Home Manager at Castleford Lodge Care Home, said Sheila’s fundraiser reflected the strong sense of community within the home.
"Sheila has become a much-loved part of our community,” Sarah said.
"She is kind, thoughtful and always thinking of others. When she first came to me with the idea, I knew we had to do everything in our power to support her and make it happen.”
Following the head shave, the home surprised Sheila with a celebration where residents and colleagues came together to sing karaoke, enjoy a tipple and nibbles, share stories and celebrate her achievement.
When asked what strength means to her, she said: “For me, strength means carrying on and living life the way it should be. I’ve had to learn to live again.”