IT was ‘hair today gone tomorrow’ for a plucky Port teacher who took a close shave to help people diagnosed with brain tumours.

Paul Cochrane, a chemistry teacher at Port Glasgow High School, ‘razed’ the bar by losing his locks in aid of the brainstrust — a UK charity which is dedicated to improving care for brain tumour sufferers and providing support.

Paul said he was inspired to raise money for the charity in memory of his father-in-law.

He told the Tele: “Five years ago, Stuart Kennedy, my father-in-law, was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. 

“My wife Carol was determined that her dad’s last months would be spent doing things on his terms. 

“When she looked for support and advice, brainstrust responded immediately and coached her at all stages to make sure her dad received the care and support he required to fulfil his wishes. 

“Due to this support, he managed to spend most of the time with his family on short breaks and at home. 

“He finally passed, at home, in January 2013, surrounded by all who loved him.”

Due to the help and support they received, Paul’s wife Carol has now become the charity’s Scottish representative.

Paul added: “The brainstrust organisation realised that there was a massive need for this type of support in Scotland and they expanded their operations using Carol. 

“Since then, families all over Scotland and in Northern Ireland have been able to talk and meet with the extended brainstrust family, allowing them to make sure that their loved ones have the best possible advice and support at what is a most challenging time.”

Carol says she is proud of her husband and the Port High community for raising money for such an important cause.
She said: “The school has been so supportive, it’s absolutely brilliant.”

Paul and Carol are keen to thank staff who held a bake sale in the school which raised over £160.

They are also keen to thank sixth year pupils Murin Keith and Rhy Lappin who helped to organise the headshave, and former pupil Emma Carson who shaved off Paul’s hair.

Anyone who would like to sponsor Paul can still do so online at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paul-cochrane3.
To get more information about the charity contact Carol via her email carol@brainstrust.org.uk or call 01983 213578.