It’s been an itchy and uncomfortable 10 weeks, but it’s nothing compared to what kids with ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) have to endure.
Normally clean-shaven, Scott Robson from Faulconbridge has been growing a beard since June 1 for the third annual Beard Up Boys fundraiser.
He started the fundraiser in 2015 for his friend Craig Muddle who has two children Joel, 15, and Jasmine, 12, who both have the debilitating genetic neurodegenerative disorder A-T.
Although humbled by his mate’s generosity, Mr Muddle insisted any funds raised go to medical research to find a cure and to give hope to not only his family, but to all children and families dealing with the rare and incurable disorder.
Both kids attend Winmalee High School and are mostly wheelchair-bound and require assistance with many of life’s daily tasks.
“It’s [growing a beard] a bit of uncomfortableness compared to what they have to endure,” Mr Robson said.
This year 44 blokes have been growing beards, with the big shave-off to be held at The Ori Hotel in Springwood on Saturday, August 26.
From 2pm there will be a sponsorship drive, heaps of chocolate wheel prizes, sausage sizzle, kids entertainment including jumping castle, colouring-in station, face painting and cupcake decorating, and the shave-off of all registered beards. From 6pm the live entertainment starts and fundraising 'Toss the Coin' games.
They’re hoping to raise $20,000 for research.
This year the fundraiser was expanded include an official launch on May 28 at the Springwood Growers Market, courtesy of a market stall donated by organiser Nicole Riley, and continuing at the Oriental Hotel where registrations were taken. Further fundraising was undertaken on July 30 with a high tea held at the Avalon Bar and Restaurant in Katoomba, while a golf day was concurrently held at Springwood Country Club.