Emily goes under the scissors in aid of accommodation unit

LERWICK woman Emily Smith’s fundraiser in aid of the islands accommodation unit next to Aberdeen Maternity Hospital is heading towards the £1,000 mark after she got her hair chopped off on Friday.

The mother of four has stayed in the voluntary-funded self-catering accommodation, which is free for Shetland and Orkney residents, during several pregnancies.

“I was a tad nervous as I loved my long hair,” she said of the haircut, which took place at the Envy Hair Studio, “but Michelle was great and did a wonderful job on my hair. I am speechless at the generosity of everyone who has donated.

“Honestly, I didn’t think we would get so much! I’m thrilled to bits by how this has all gone so far.”

She has now raised £780 on her JustGiving page and has also received cash donations in a tub at the gift shop she runs, the New Fat Little Pony on Lerwick’s Commercial Street.

Emily added that folk should “keep an eye out for my next events – it’s going to be awesome!”

The accommodation unit was refurbished back in 2010. Its rooms are used by mothers, often joined by their partners and children, while preparing to give birth in Aberdeen.

Pregnant women are often sent to the mainland in the latter stages of pregnancy for various reasons, including any concern about possible complications during labour.

The rooms are also used by parents with babies in the hospital’s neonatal unit. 

• You can donate to Emily’s fundraiser here.