Ray Malone, an adopted Laois man with a renowned 50+ year-old moustache, is shaving it off for charity.
Ray, 76, who is originally from Dublin, moved to Portlaoise 20 years ago this year.
Very few people alive today have ever seen Ray without his moustache.
The official shaving will take place on February 22, at 5pm, with the kind support of Portland Barbers in Portlaoise.
The fundraiser is in support of Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Ireland (SBHI) and all proceeds will go to the non-profit organisation.
LaoisToday spoke with Ray about why he took up the cause, who was ironically enough shaving when he took the call.
“I have a brother who died from Spina Bifida in 1955, when he was only seven years of age,” he said.
Almost 70 years later, Ray’s granddaughter is battling Hydrocephalus today.
Ray’s daughter, Karen Chadwick, who has helped her father with this fundraiser, also works for Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Ireland (SBHI).
SBHI is a dedicated organisation committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and families impacted by Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.
The organisation provides a range of essential services, including medical and social support, education, employment support and advocacy.
Asked if he will miss his moustache, Ray was adamant he will, saying: “I’ve had it since I was 21, maybe even a bit younger.
“My wife won’t know me when it’s gone – she’s never seen me without it. That’ll be a big change when she sees what she really married.
“My family have been pushing me to do it for charity; and then at Christmas they got me – and there wasn’t even drink involved, because I don’t drink.”
You can support Ray’s fundraiser by donating to the dedicated GoFundMe page here.
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