Premiership-winning NSW Swifts defender Lauren Moore has today taken the brave step of shaving her head to raise awareness for children’s cancer research.
With the 2020 Suncorp Super Netball season suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and players taking large wage cuts to help the sport through the period, Moore decided to use her extra time in lockdown to raise funds for The Kids’ Cancer Project.
Moore started out with the goal of raising $10,000 but has exceeded that target and has now raised in excess of $15k and counting.
The Central Coast native, who was part of the Swifts squad which secured the club’s sixth Premiership last year, is still in full-time training but has been using her home as a fundraising base to engage the netball and business communities to support her initiative.
The Kids’ Cancer Project, founded by Col Reynolds and led by CEO and former World Cup-winning Wallaby Owen Finegan, believe the only way to improve outcomes for kids with cancer is through medical research. Their focus is to find better treatments, build capabilities and develop survivorship programs.
The Charity have had a partnership with the NSW Swifts for the past decade, and a presentation to the 2020 roster inspired Moore to undertake her initiative.
“I have always said that I don’t care what people think of me on the outside, because it’s what’s inside that counts,” she said.
“When The Kids’ Cancer Project came and chatted to us I was amazed by the work they do and how they help the children and their families who are affected by cancer. As a professional athlete it put a lot of things in perspective.
“From the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank everyone who has donated. I understand that this is a very difficult time for everyone, but cancer is a constant in our lives and will still be here after Covid-19 has passed, so these funds are much-needed.”
NSW Swifts Executive General Manager Nikki Horton said Moore’s effort was something she hoped would provide the wider community with some much-needed good news.
“We are all so proud of the way Lauren has used this time to really highlight what can be done to help others when you put your mind to it,” she said.
“I think this is a first for an elite female Aussie athlete, and something you don’t see every day, so good on Lauren for having the bravery to do it.
“Her efforts are a reflection of the wider netball community, grassroots and elite, who have really pulled together at this this time without any gripes for the good of the game and wider community.
“The Kids’ Cancer Project have been partners of ours for a very long time, and the work they do is vital. Just like our amazing front-line workers fighting Covid-19, this charity’s work is 365-day job, year-round, and we’d love to see the Australian community continue to contribute to their cause.”
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To see a full repeat of Lauren's headshave, please CLICK HERE.
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To donate to Lauren's campaign for The Kids' Cancer Project, please CLICK HERE
