A Courageous Act of Support
Janice’s Head Shave for Breast Cancer UK
There was an extraordinary moment of bravery and solidarity at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre today (28th November), as long-standing member Janice shaved her head in front of her weekly Senior Circuits class – all in support of Breast Cancer UK.
This year has been an incredibly difficult one for Janice’s family. Earlier in the year, their daughter Janine received a devastating diagnosis: Stage 3 aggressive breast cancer. The news reached the family only a day after Janine had undergone major surgery, turning their world upside down.
For Janice, taking on challenges to help others is nothing new. In 2023 she completed a charity skydive to raise funds for BLESMA, a military charity supporting limbless veterans. BLESMA has been a tremendous support to her other daughter, Lisa, who served as an army medic for 18 years and underwent an above-the-knee amputation.
In the moments before the head shave, Janice shared her motivation:
Supporting Janine is what today is all about. We can’t fully understand what she’s going through, but she’s begun chemotherapy and is already losing her hair. I told her, ‘I’m going to join you!’
I mentioned the idea to my friends at the leisure centre last week and they’ve been so supportive. That’s when I asked Lisa to come to my exercise class and shave my hair.
I’ve gone for a full shave—not just a buzz cut! I’ve got my bobble hat ready! Janine is doing so well – she’s being so brave for all of us.”
Surrounded by her leisure centre friends, staff and family members, Janice sat proudly as Lisa took the clippers – having a bit of fun by shaping a mohawk before taking the rest of the hair off!
And while Janice had planned to leave wearing her bobble hat, it turned out a swim cap was the closest thing to hand to keep her warm after the big moment.
The room was filled with applause, encouragement, and emotion. It was a powerful reminder of the strength of community and the love shared among family and friends.
Janice’s courageous act was not only a tribute to Janine but a beacon of awareness and hope for everyone affected by breast cancer.
Today, the leisure centre wasn’t just a place to exercise – it was a place of unity, compassion, and remarkable bravery.
Over £350 has been raised for the charity in just one week.
And Janice has now set up a Just Giving page for anyone else who would like to contribute: www.justgiving.com/page/janice-colebrooke-1
