99-year-old resident shaves head for cancer

Last month, after raising more than $2,500, Ms Thackery made good on this promise, a day after her 99^th birthday,

“It all started as a joke when the male carers shaved their heads for the event last year,” Ms Thackery says.

“I asked ‘why should men get to have all the fun’, and decided it’s time women get to do it as well.

It is the third year residents at the Lillian Martin Community have taken part in the Relay For Life marathon, completing laps of the facility and grounds to raise funds. 

Residents have been preparing for the event by donning sneakers and training with the help of physiotherapists, families, volunteers and the Community’s chaplain and lifestyle staff.

According to Lillian Martin Manager Integrated Services, Vicki Mills, the training has not only given everyone an opportunity to exercise, it has developed comradery and brought the whole community together.

“On top of the usual restorative care with physiotherapists, everyone has been taking part in walking groups, exercising on bikes and strength training,” Ms Mills says.

“The whole Lillian Martin Community is behind Doris and residents taking part in the relay.”

Ms Thackery says she was not nervous at all about having her head shaved in front of family, friends and staff.

“At my age I’m ready for anything and with two daughters having had cancer, I’m very committed to the cause.”