Twelve-year-old Harrison Gander decided to raise money for Rockinghorse after the support he received as a baby.
Harrison was born prematurely at only 26 weeks, weighing just 1lb 6oz, or 725g. Despite doctors saying that he wouldn’t make it through the first night, Harrison was a fighter and continued to thrive.
Harrison at six months old
Harrison’s mum Kerry Cassar explains more: “After eight lifesaving operations and being told he wouldn’t walk or talk until he was ten (something he proved them wrong about by the time he was two), Harrison is now 12, a pupil at Woodlands Meed school in Burgess Hill and living life to the best of his abilities.
“He still needs major surgeries, but rarely complains, and now wants to give back to Rockinghorse to say thank you for all of their support throughout his life, and to raise money to help other children who are ill in hospital.”
Harrison explained more about his experiences: “I was in the Trevor Mann unit for five months then in special care for another month. I had lots of operations and was on the ventilator for many months.
“Once I was discharged I had twice weekly visits from the community nurses as I was on oxygen, and I visited the Alex every week for clinics. I still have to go to the Alex quite often for appointments with different doctors and I appreciate the help and care they have given me over this time.”
Harrison decided that he wanted to do something spectacular to raise money. So, he decided to have his head completely shaved! “It’s not something I would normally do but it’s such a good cause by such a brave young man,” said Kerry.
Harrison after his head shave
So, last week, Harrison and Kerry made their way to Kings Barbers in Church Road, Burgess Hill for the big shave. When he was in the chair Kerry suggested he just have a grade two, but Harrison decided he was going to have it all off “as it’s for charity.” This made Kerry feel a bit sick, but Harrison went ahead with it and had it all completely shaved off!
Afterward Harrison said: “I felt a bit emotional on the day and upset that my hair was gone but I knew that I was doing a good thing and maybe saving someone’s life, and it will grow back.”
And Harrison’s bravery certainly struck a chord with his supporters. Kerry and Harrison set up a Just Giving page with the aim of raising £200 for the shave but they have managed to smash that target and have currently raised over £1,500!
This will make such a difference to so many other babies and children in hospital so thanks so much to Harrison and here’s hoping the hair grows back soon!
And there’s still time to donate to Harrison’s fundraiser, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Harrison-Gander1
