Sharifah Zaiton Bte Syed Abdul Rahman

When I told my mom I was going to shave my head, she freaked out. Many people questioned my sanity - my children and my friends. One person though who supported me from the very beginning was my husband. He told me that if my heart was sincere, then I should go ahead and do it. So I did.

The day finally arrived, and once it was done. I felt free. Although mostly embarrassed, but within me, I knew I had done the right thing. I even brought my youngest son, Imran along with me on that day to shave his head as well. You might ask why I did this when I have no affiliation with children with cancer whatsoever.

Two years ago, I invited a group of children from the Children's Cancer Foundation to my restaurant for a meal. I still remember a few of these children, one who lost his arm, another who is in his wheelchair, and so many more who touched my heart. This made me realise how lucky I am, blessed with health, and mostly my four beautiful healthy children.

I felt I owed something to what life has given me. I caught news of the Children's Cancer Foundation's head-shaving event, and I thought this would be a good way to express my appreciation.

However, the biggest reason I felt moved to shave my head was to support the children. I want them to know that they are not alone in their battle. I want them to know that there are people out there who would do just about anything to make a difference in their lives even if it isn't a big difference.

Being Malay, I am very saddened to know that there are not many coming forward to show their support. My Malay friends have told me that by shaving my hair, it is a good reason to wear a head-scarf. But doesn't that defeat the whole purpose of shaving my head in the first place? It is about awareness isn't it? If I were to wear a head-scarf, who would be made aware?

I take pride in saying that now, I can go out and feel proud about what I did and how I look. I just wish that more people would come forward and show their support.