“I’m there for you” – 9-year-old Ruben shaves his head to support his friend with Leukaemia

Ruben, from NSW, learnt that his friend was being bullied for having no hair – caused by her leukaemia treatment.

Devastated by what was going on, Ruben offered his support in one of the most heart-warming ways possible – to don the clippers and shave his own head! This was a big step for Ruben who previously avoided haircuts and was proud of his long, curly cut.

The shave took place a few weeks before Christmas and Ruben sent the photos and videos to his friend in a show of support.

Ruben’s dad, Paul, worked as an Oncology nurse and in the palliative care sector – and has raised his son to show compassion to those who are struggling with their health. Paul said that’s not the only reason Ruben decided to shave off his hair.

“Ruben decided to shave his hair in mid-December and really wanted to do it for Christmas,” said Paul.

“Christmas is a hard time for families that are suffering from cancer with all the hospital visits so he wanted to show his support during those hard times.”

Ruben was also inspired by Bolt –  his Golden Retriever crossed with a Labrador – who recovered from his own battle with cancer after surgery was performed to remove a tumour on his left side.

“I’m doing this to support all people with leukaemia. I’m going to shave my hair and wait until my hair grows back to support them and feel what it’s like,” said Ruben.

“I’ve heard (leukaemia) is terrible and I want to support them. I’m sorry if you have it.”

CLCRF would like to thank Ruben and his dad Paul for supporting children battling leukaemia.

Merry Christmas from the CLCRF team

The team at CLCRF thank you for your support in 2018 and wish you and your family a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Your support allows us to continue our valuable scientific research into childhood cancers. Over the past 30 years our team of scientists have made amazing breakthroughs into the treatment children receive. It is because of this research that those children have an opportunity to live long and fulfilling lives.

Roll on 2019!

Remembering WA’s generous philanthropist Stan Perron

Last Friday morning, 96-year-old Stan Perron passed away at his home, survived by wife Jean, three children and seven grandchildren.

His multi-billion dollar empire of property, iron ore, and the WA distribution rights to Toyota cars will remain in the Perron family, most likely with daughter Elizabeth, but that’s not the only legacy the savvy businessman leaves behind.

Stan and Jean have supported a wide variety of institutions for many years. The Perron family have given away vast sums of money to tens of charities, one of those being CLCRF, and Stan warmed the hearts of many with his enduring commitment to ethical behaviour – championing integrity, respect, excellence, team work and compassion.

CLCRF CEO Andrea Alexander said Mr Perron was a regular donor to the organisation, helping to fund research into childhood cancers.

“The Foundation was saddened to learn of Mr Stan Perron’s recent passing.  The Stan Perron Charitable Foundation Ltd have been loyal and strong supporters of CLCRF since 1999.  On behalf of the Foundation Board, it’s members and supporters, we would like to express our deepest sympathy to the Perron family at this very sad time.”

A quote from Stan Perron in 2012, which was targeted at other wealthy individuals in WA, summed up the businessman’s approach to giving in his usual direct manner.

“There’s a lot of people in mining who have made fortunes and don’t give much away,” he said. “They buy boats, but they don’t think of charities much. I think they should give more.”

Stan Perron (2 November 1922 – 23 November 2018)