Highgate fire crew have heads shaved for breast cancer charity

Feb 24 2009 by Catherine Lillington, Birmingham Mail

DEVOTED son and firefighter Steve Gibson was joined by his station’s crew to shave their heads in support of his mum, who has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

The 25-year-old firefighter enlisted the rest of Highgate’s Blue Watch after he told them of his plans to help his 52-year-old mum Diane.

Steve, from Knowle, said: “It started off as a way to support my mum as she is going through chemotherapy and losing her hair.

“I came in to work and told the lads I was doing it and they said ‘if you’re getting it done I’ll have it done too’.”

It is hoped £1,500 will be raised for the support group Breast Friends, from the event at Spire Parkway hospital, in Solihull, where Diane is having treatment.

Foster carer Diane, also from Knowle, said: “My son Steve said he would come along and have his head shaved to support me but when he told his work colleagues from the fire brigade, they all wanted to help. It is wonderful to see such support and we have had many generous sponsors including someone, who wishes to remain anonymous, paying us £50 for each of the heads shaved.

“Having breast cancer is not a nice thing, but the clinic is so welcoming and friendly that I’m not having such a tough time.

“I want people to know that though it is terrifying, being told you have cancer, you should not feel on your own and the right support is there for you.”