Dean is the 12-year-old son of Lucia Simeone, a members of our Yamba Conference. He recently finished at his local Catholic primary school and held a fundraiser for the St Vincent de Paul Society, where he cut his long hair to be used to make wigs for children who may have lost their hair due to cancer treatment. 

Here Dean’s story in his own words: 

I first started growing my hair during the COVID lockdowns when I was living in Sydney because we couldn’t go to the hairdressers. When restrictions eased, I got it cut but I realised I really liked having long hair. So I decided to grow it again and this time I wanted to do something helpful with it one day. I ended up growing my hair for four years before I was ready for my big cut. 

When my hair was finally long enough, I decided to organise a fundraiser at my primary school. I had my haircut on the last day of school in front of all my classmates and teachers, which felt exciting and a bit scary! 

I donated my hair so it can be made into wigs for people who lose their hair when they’re sick. Although I was nervous for my haircut, I knew it could help someone else feel happier and more confident. 

Throughout 2025, I was a Year 6 Mission Representative at my school. And during that time I saw firsthand the amazing work that Vinnies did in our community like helping families who are struggling by providing food, clothing and support. Knowing that made me want to help even more. 

So while I was planning my big cut, I decided to raise money for the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal. With the generous support of family, friends and my school community, I raised almost $1400 to help Vinnies support people in need. 

I’m really proud that my haircut could make a difference. It showed me that even kids can do big things to help other people and small actions can bring big hope.