WHEN Mackenzie Chilvers walked into former Echuca resident Janine De Rooze's office, she knew he was a special young boy.
Janine, a pathologist at MyDoc Healthcare in Bendigo, could not help but be instantly drawn to Mackenzie.
Dressed up in his superman outfit, ready for his weekly COVID-19 test, Janine knew she wanted to help him.
“Mackenzie has been diagnosed with leukemia and I see him for his test before going off to get his treatment,” she said.
“He's just a special little man and I know he's really struggling so he really just touched my heart.
“So that's why I decided to take part in the World's Greatest Shave.”
By shaving her head on Friday, March 12, Janine joined the many people who have helped raise more than $12 million to further research and support families facing blood cancer.
“I know his parents are doing it tough so I just wanted to lend a hand where I could,” she said.
Since February, Janine has managed to raise more than $1800 for the cause.
“I originally set my goal at $500 and it was so heartwarming to be able to fundraise so far over that,” she said.
Janine was joined by Mackenzie and a few friends, family and colleagues as she committed to the big chop.
“I've been growing my hair for a while now and it is a bit strange not having it now, but it's honestly worth it,” she said.
“If there's anyone thinking of doing the same, I couldn't recommend it enough.
“It's a great feeling knowing you've helped someone in any way possible.”
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