Nottinghamshire woman braves the shave to thank NHS for saving her life

A Nottinghamshire cancer survivor went through a 'hair-raising experience' to say thanks to the NHS.
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Bulwell mum-of-two Emma Sheffield decided to take part in a head shave fundraiser to show her gratitude to hospital staff to whom she said she 'owed her life.'

Hundreds of people tuned in to a live streaming on Facebook as a nervous Emma took the clippers to her long, blonde hair on Monday night (April 27) It was videoed by her partner Antony Gayden.

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The thirty-two-year old, estate agent, originally from Ravenshead, aimed to raise £1,000 for NHS Charities Together - the same organisation that Captain Tom Moore has been fundraising for. Like Captain Tom, in just a few days Emma had beaten her target, raising £1,600.

Emma beforeEmma before
Emma before

Emma, who works for Your Move, in Ilkeston, was diagnosed with cervical cancer in November. In January she underwent a radical hysterectomy at Nottingham City Hospital.

Emma said: "It was a complete shock to get the cervical cancer diagnosis. I'd only had a child a year before, so I never expected anything like that.”

After recently receiving the "all clear," Emma decided to do something to say thank you.

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"The care I received from the hospital staff was amazing and I wanted to do something for our amazing NHS. I owe them my life,” she said.

Emma afterEmma after
Emma after

“I was so nervous but excited too when it came to shaving off my hair, but the money came in so quickly, I just had to get on with it!

"My partner thought I was absolutely crazy, but supported me as it was for charity and he really likes how I look now. Lots of people have said they think it suits me!

She added: "I was a bit worried about how my children might react, but my three year old Eva said, 'mummy you look like a boiled egg!' My 16 month old Shelby gave me a very long, hard look, I was worried there might be tears, but she just patted my head and smiled, so everything was ok!"

Emma has now decided to keep the fund open as more money is coming in. Anyone interested in supporting her can donate at https://www.facebook.com/donate/250850339438084/.