Botany teen, diagnosed with tumour, shaves the world by chopping his long locks

When Botany teenager Adrian Tasselli began growing his hair three-and-a-half years ago for the World’s Greatest Shave, he never expected to be diagnosed with a tumour himself.

Adrian Tasselli, 19, of Botany has raised more than $2800 for the World’s Greatest Shave and is aiming for $5000. Picture: Flavio Brancaleone

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When Adrian Tasselli began growing his hair three-and-a-half years ago for the World’s Greatest Shave, he never expected to be diagnosed with a tumour himself.

The 19-year-old Botany resident said the discovery of his tumour was purely accidental.

“It was about three weeks ago,” he said.

“I went to the doctor for a completely unrelated issue but I told her I also had a bit of pressure on my throat so she sent me away for scans.”

Adrian Tasselli, 19, outside his Botany home. Picture: Flavio Brancaleone

It’s not yet known whether the tumour is benign, something Mr Tasselli will find out when he undergoes surgery tomorrow.

Despite the health scare, Mr Tasselli’s admirable fundraising efforts for the Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave have not slowed down.

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Quickly surpassing his goal of $1000, Mr Tasselli has already received more than $2800 in donations and he is determined to have his long hair removed.

“Now I’m going to go for $5000,” he said.

Mr Tasselli said the ability to help people “that can’t control losing their hair” inspired him to join the World’s Greatest Shave, which will take place on March 16.

“The thought that growing my hair and doing something good can benefit someone else … I’d just say to anyone if you can do it why not?” Mr Tasselli said.

Adrian Tasselli has been growing his hair for three-and-a-half years in preparation for the World’s Greatest Shave. Picture: Flavio Brancaleone

As it’s not uncommon for patients undergoing chemotherapy to lose their hair, World’s Greatest Shave has partnered with Sustainable Salons to recycle hair into wigs.

Mr Tasselli said that while the imminent shave was “daunting”, donating his hair is something he hopes to repeat again in a few more years.

“Another shave is something I’ve definitely thought about. If I can benefit two people this time [with my hair], why not do it again?” he said.

In its 21st year of campaigning, the 2019 World’s Greatest shave has already raised more than $5.2 million which will provide practical support to families dealing with blood cancer as well as fund vital research.

DURING LAST YEAR’S EVENT

Mr Tasselli will join the ranks of 200,000 other Aussies who have shaved or coloured their hair for the Leukaemia Foundation over the years.

To sponsor Mr Tasselli’s and the World’s Greatest Shave for the Leukaemia Foundation, please visit worldsgreatestshave.com