22 May, 2026
Empathy in action Matahui School is hosting a school-wide fundraiser today for the Breast Cancer Support Services Tauranga Trust, which was inspired by Year 4 student Gaige Aitchison-Budd, centre. Gaige, aged 9, decided three years ago to grow his hair to donate to people experiencing hair loss. Back then, in 2023, his family had no idea that
his mother and a close relative would both be diagnosed with breast cancer a year later. Kristine Aitchison’s breast cancer diagnosis rocked the small school family of 50 students. She is the school’s marketing contractor and volunteers on the PTA and as a grants administrator. Principal Mary Woods said the school chose to
fundraise for BCSSTT because the service had supported Aitchison – an “integral part of the school” – through her cancer journey. Year 0-8 students, teachers and the wider school community would participate today with a pink-themed mufti day, bake sale and Givealittle page. “Empathy is what we’re fostering,” Woods said.
“It’s about the ability to think about somebody else’s journey and walk in their shoes.” Aitchison said her family chose to cut Gaige’s hair as part of the fundraiser because of the school’s strong values programme of empathy, courage and perseverance. “It aligns really well with that.” Find out more on page 3. Photo / Merle Cave
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
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