The Martlet

When it comes to making a statement, chopping off all your hair will get the message across.

Rosa Castro, 49, decided to do just that on Friday, Oct. 3, in the University Centre.

In a joint effort with Cops for Cancer, Castro, who works in UVic’s Facilities Management Janitorial Services, raised more than $3,000 in the two months before the ceremonial lopping took place — one day before the grand finale of the Tour de Rock hit Victoria.

“This is something I’ve been planning to do for seven years now,” Castro said. “I’m so happy for all the support I’ve received.”

Castro, whose husband is a two-time cancer survivor, said that when she turned 43 she made up her mind to grow out her wavy dark hair until her 50th birthday — then she planned to shear it off and donate it to charity. However, as Castro’s birthday isn’t coming up until March, she decided to take a stance in a more publicly minded time this October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Castro wanted the maximum coverage on her chopping event, in part to inspire others and in part to “go wild” while she was still young enough.

“This is the one time in my life to do something crazy,” Castro said. “So here we go!”

Helena Miklea, the manager of Janitorial Services at UVic Facilities Management said it was her pleasure to help facilitate the haircutting event, but added that she only played a tiny part in Castro’s charitable act.

“This really is all Rosa,” Miklea said. “Everyone loves her, and they just want to help. It’s wonderful to see this kind of a turn out for her and to be able to allow the staff time to see it happen.”

Roughly 70 people gathered to watch Castro lose her locks. Most on-lookers were from Facilities Management, though others were friends and family members. Even a few Campus Security officers stopped by to show Castro support.

“I’ve never been in the electric chair, but this must be what it feels like,” Castro said, clutching the edge of her seat before her cut. A rumble of nervous laughter echoed in the crowd.

“Let’s do this,” Castro said, breathing in.

The crowd cheered and there were tears in Castro’s eyes as the first snips of ponytailed hair were taken by her hairdresser son. By the time all was finished, Castro was left with a cleanly shaven head. Her locks measured roughly 55 centimeters (22 inches) each.

Castro’s first look in a bystander’s pocket mirror left her speechless.

“Oh woah!” she finally gasped.

After the event, Castro said she is still very pleased with her decision.

“It’s light — now I won’t have hot flashes,” Castro said. “Besides, it’s only hair. It will grow back soon.”

For information on how to get involved with Cops for Cancer, visit their website at www.cancer.ca/copsforcancer.