A nine-year-old Ōtākiri student has shown remarkable courage and compassion, cutting off her long hair to support her grandad’s battle with cancer and raising more than $1600 for a good cause.

Brielle Galbraith donated her hair as part of a Shave for a Cure fundraiser on April 2 with the support of her school and wider community.

The Ōtākiri School student took part in a special end-of-term assembly, where the school organised a “crazy hair day” and gold coin donation, raising more than $240.

“It was such a beautiful day for her,” said Brielle’s mum, Sarah Hockley.

“They put on music and the kids were all dancing around … it made her feel really comfortable.”

Brielle’s fundraiser was inspired by her grandad, Peter Hockley, who is undergoing treatment for cancer in his eye.

“He’s just had a second round of treatment … it’s better than what it was, so hopefully it’s going to come right now after this treatment,” Ms Hockley said.

Mr Hockley’s workplace, Essity in Kawerau, also got behind the cause, organising a surprise fundraiser that raised more than $760, along with an Easter gift basket for Brielle.

“They got together secretly without him even knowing,” Ms Hockley said.

“It was unreal. I couldn’t believe it.”

Combined with donations from friends and family through her online fundraising page, Brielle raised $1638.

The young fundraiser had hair that reached her lower back, which was sectioned into five plaits before being cut by five important people in her life – her grandad, Peter, school principal Mr G, her dad Matthew, Aunty Ari, and her friend Sophie.

The donated hair has been sent away for assessment and will be used to create wigs for people in need.

Brielle’s decision to take part was her own.

“It was 100 percent her idea,” Ms Hockley said.

“Two years ago at school, another little girl cut her hair, and she had seen her do it.”

When asked why she wanted to do it, Brielle said it was to support her grandad and help others.

“She wanted to show support for him and raise awareness for all the different cancers out there.”

Ms Hockley said she was incredibly proud of her daughter’s selfless act.

“She was really happy to gift her hair for someone in need to feel beautiful and comfortable again.

“We are so grateful to everyone who supported her.”