A HEARTBROKEN Greenock mum is preparing to shed her beloved locks in a touching tribute to her brother who tragically died aged just 43.

Sandra Johnston will have her back-length hair shorn in memory of her sibling Thomas ‘Tam’ Kane, who passed away from throat cancer 10 years ago.

The 47-year-old, from Nairn Road in Larkfield, has never come to terms with the death of the dad-of-two, who lived in Banff Road, and is taking part in the charity challenge to raise money for Ardgowan Hospice and those affected by the cruel disease.

Her locks will be donated to the Little Princess Trust, which makes real-hair wigs for children who have lost theirs due to cancer treatment.

A small donation will be made to the Aileymill Primary parent partnership, of which Sandra is a member through her son Tyler, 11, who is a pupil at the school.

Sandra, who also lost her daughter in February this year, says her venture is providing some light at the end of the tunnel following a difficult few months.

She told the Telegraph: “My brother died of cancer 10 years ago and I watched him suffer.

“Watching anyone suffer is terrible, but he was only 43.

“He was healthy and worked in the coal industry and on building sites — he was always a worker.

“I wanted to do something when he died but I couldn’t and even now I’m not in the right frame of mind but it’s given me something to focus on.

“I’m doing this in his memory.

“It’s given me something to look forward to because I also lost my daughter in February.
“I’ve been in a deep, dark place.”
Sandra has raised almost £600 so far — despite being unable to do a great deal due to a recent knee replacement operation.

But she hopes to generate even more before the big hair cut on Friday and says any donations will be going towards a great cause.

She added: “My hair will grow back again but these poor children don’t have any whilst they are getting treatment and false wigs aren’t great.

“But this will help make real hair wigs for them.

“It’s much harder for children to be without hair.

“That’s what life’s all about, your children.

“I feel that because I am from Greenock I should also keep the money in Greenock.”

To sponsor Sandra or to make a donation call 07903 919753.