Indian Creek Elementary 5th grader Alexa Austin initiated a challenge in September, 2007 to all Indian Creek students and their families to join her in the Indian Creek Locks of Love Challenge. There are 30 students, teachers, “moms”, and siblings participating in the Challenge. They all pledged to grow their hair during the last 18 months preparing for a group donation to Locks of Love.
A celebration and cutting event took place Friday, May 8, at Hair Dooz Salon, 6427 Oaklandon Road. Heather Hewitt, owner, donated her time to the project as well as the salon. She and a team of stylists cut and styled all 30 participants' hair after school.
Locks of Love is a public, non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children under the age of 18 suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis.
“I’ve thought about doing Locks of Love for a few years, but I didn’t want to do it by myself. I finally decided to challenge my school. It’s been so fun doing it together. It’s an easy way to help others,” said Alexa, 11.
The group met after school every two months to measure their hair growth progress and to also learn how to properly take care of their hair in preparation for their donation. They also learned about the causes of hair loss and had a 15-year-old cancer survivor come and talk to them about her journey after being diagnosed with osteosarcoma.
“I am very proud of the students and adult members of the Indian Creek community for their support of Locks of Love over the past 18 months," said Indian Creek Principal, Dennie Brooks. "This initiative is one they or the children who are on the receiving end will never forget. This gift of hair is truly an example of a caring community.”
Photos by Brenda Staples Photography
