Fullarton’s Helen goes Purple for Parkinson’s

Living Choice Fullarton resident, Helen Hammond, is well-known for her support of the arts and music and, with the help of Joan Ogden, has organised the annual SALA Exhibitions, the monthly Art Expression @123 Fisher exhibitions, the Parkinson’s SA art show plus regular music recitals at the village. Throughout this time, Helen has quietly been battling health issues and is scheduled to have Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery at Calvary Adelaide Hospital on 30th October.

Because the procedure requires her entire head to be shaved, Helen decided to turn the event into a fundraiser for Parkinson’s SA. First, she had her hair coloured purple on Thursday, 22nd October, prior to having it all removed on Tuesday 27th October by Pierina Jaud, the onsite hairdresser.

Helen invited fellow residents and her friends to join her for drinks and nibbles to witness the “big shave”. Many took the opportunity to donate to Parkinson’s SA, whose help and support is used by thousands of people with mobility disorders every day.  Jason Sack, Group GM, also made a donation of $1,000 on behalf of Living Choice. By Tuesday, Helen had raised more than $5,000 and donations were still coming in. “I’m absolutely delighted - I hope it inspires others to turn a negative into a positive!”

If you would like to make a donation, you can make a direct contribution to Parkinson’s SA,  at Westpac Bank, BSB: 035 212, A/C No: 355313,  REF: HH LCF Haircut. Alternatively, cheques can be sent to Parkinson’s SA,  25 King William  Street, Unley SA  5061.