Braving the shave for Ben

Braving the shave for Ben

When we first suggested the idea to Ben that we shave our heads so he wouldn't be alone in his hair loss, and that we'd do a fundraiser, his response was 'well it can't be just for little ol' me'. 

The thing is, it is and it isn't just for little ol' him. Because it is totally for him and what he's going through. And all the other people who get dealt cards they don't deserve. 

Ben has always been a rare and complicated soul (just the way we love him) but unfortunately his cancer is too. He has a sarcoma called a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour (MPNST). We don't know exactly what the future holds, but he's on the rollercoaster of treatments now and we want there to be more ups than downs, of course.

For those of you who know us Radcliffe's, our curls (and for the boys, big beards too) are our trademark. It is a big part of Ben's image, and naturally he is finding it hard to lose his hair as he goes through chemotherapy.

So, we're going to shave our heads so he's not alone in this one aspect of all the things he's dealing with.

We don't imagine that this fundraiser is going to make millions or be the tipping point for incredible cures but it will make a difference to the charities that are supporting Ben and those on a similar journey, so they can keep doing what they do best.

• Sarcoma UK work tirelessly to support those living with sarcomas and the research needed for specialist teams like Ben's at UCLH.
• Macmillan Cancer Support have offered so much already to help Ben and our family, and no doubt we'll continue to lean on them as he continues his treatment.
• And lastly From Me to You - you may know that Lexi volunteers and works for this wonderful small charity - the difference that letters can make to those living with cancer is something that cannot be forgotten, especially by reducing isolation and loneliness, and helping family and friends stay connected.

So that is the why of the matter, all we need now is your support.

We're planning to do the shave on the 17th July after Ben has gotten over the worst of the next cycle's symptoms, to mark his halfway point with this chemo. Obviously, depending on how he's feeling, we may move the date - as we'd love him to be wielding the clippers if he's up to it. 

We know times are tough, so whatever you can give is appreciated - thank you for all your support.

The Fundraisers

Scott Radcliffe Alexa Radcliffe-Hart