1 March 2019
by Janelle Frencham
Roger Davies has a big heart and an even bigger beard to match. To raise money for vital diabetes research, Roger recently organised a community fundraiser – and shaved off his beloved beard to collect a total of $1092 for Diabetes Victoria.
Having lived with type 2 diabetes for more than a decade, Roger knows first-hand how this condition can affect everyday life. Roger’s life changed in 2007 after a work-related routine health check discovered that he had type 2 diabetes. This diagnosis came as a massive shock especially as he hadn’t noticed any symptoms; such as excessive thirst and urination, unexplained weight loss, weakness, fatigue or blurred vision. For Roger, cutting down on sugar and having to change his diet was the hardest part about adjusting to living with this condition.
Diabetes can lead to a number of serious, long lasting complications as Roger recently experienced. He needed to have the toes on his right foot amputated. This life changing moment inspired Roger to turn this difficult experience into an opportunity to make a difference. So, he decided to fundraise for Diabetes Victoria to help fund vital ground-breaking research to find a cure.
Roger lives in a residential home called Bupa Edithvale where he hosted his big shaving event. With the help of his dedicated carer, Sandra Baily, Roger braved the razor in front of numerous residents and carers eager to cheer him on. Sandra delightfully accepted the responsibility of completing the shave. Although she liked his beard, she was both excited and nervous as Roger has never let anyone shave it for him.
Initially, Roger hoped to raise $500 and is delighted to have doubled this number already. While contemplating whether or not to keep his new look, Roger was overwhelmed by the support and encouragement he received from his friends, the local community and the staff at the Bupa aged care home. His online fundraising page is still up and running and you can support him via:
http://bit.ly/roger-shaveIf you have been inspired by Roger’s shave, why not head to the Diabetes Victoria website
diabetesvic.org.au/fundraising and get some ideas? If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the fundraising team directly on
1300 437 386 or:
fundraising@diabetesvic.org.au 
