10-Year-Old Shaves Head, Raises $2K for Child Cancer

When Juno Hadlow learned that children with cancer lose their hair during treatment, something clicked. If she lost her hair, it would be her choice—but for them, it isn't.

The 10-year-old from Queenstown, New Zealand, launched a fundraiser for Child Cancer Foundation with a goal of $2,000. She's already hit that target and will shave her head next week to honor her commitment.

Juno's inspiration came from understanding what young cancer patients give up during treatment. They miss weeks or months of school, lose time with friends, and can't do the things they love like skating or celebrating birthdays.

For a kid who loves skateboarding, playing bass, and spending time outdoors, that reality hit home. Juno decided she wanted to show these children and their families they're not facing their challenges alone.

Her mother, Jacs Lee, said Juno has been planning this for two months. They talked through everything from which charity to support to how a shaved head might feel during a Central Otago winter.

Despite exploring easier fundraising options, Juno stayed committed to the head shave. What struck Lee most was her daughter's reasoning for keeping the event low-key.

"This is not about me. This is about helping other kids," Juno told her mother. Lee said that generosity of spirit has always been part of who her daughter is.

Juno admitted she's feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty about the big day. "It's a bit unpredictable how I'm going to feel when I shave it, but right now I'm pretty excited for the future and what's to come," she said.

Why This Inspires

At just 10 years old, Juno understood something powerful: empathy isn't just feeling sorry for someone, it's taking action that matters. She didn't want credit or attention. She wanted kids fighting cancer to know someone cares enough to stand with them in a tangible way.

Her choice shows how even young people can make a real difference when they connect their own experiences to others' struggles. By giving up something she controls, Juno is honoring those who don't have that choice.

When Juno learned she'd hit her $2,000 goal, she called it "the highlight of the day." That money will help provide support services for families navigating one of life's toughest journeys—and it came from one kid who decided her hair could mean something bigger.