By Michelle Crean 

Initially nervous as she faced a new look - one little Killarney girl is now thrilled that she was able to help not one but two charities - by cutting off her beautiful long locks.

Mia McMahon, daughter of Keith and Mary, Loretto Road, cut a whopping 14 inches of her blonde highlights for 'Locks of Love', creating a hair piece for children of the LauraLynn Children's Hospice.

And, not only that, but the Gaelscoil Faithleann pupil who has just finished Third Class, has fundraised over €2,500 for the Laura Lynn Foundation through a Facebook link which is available on her dad, Keith's Facebook page or on The Little Memory Gallery.

Mia's big day was Saturday as she went in to Sean Taaffe's in town where she nervously watched on as the plaits were chopped off. But, according to her dad Keith, it was smiles all around once the initial cut was done, and now she's happily sporting a whole new look which is being admired by all.

"Cutting her hair was a big thing," Keith told the Killarney Advertiser.
"She had been growing it for two years but when it came down to it she was thrilled."

Big sister to Luke (7) and Chloe (3), Keith said Mia looks two years older.

"The hair is going to The Little Princess Trust and the funds raised to the LauraLynn Children's Hospice. To be honest we didn't think we'd raise that much. Her mom Mary set up the link for €150 and we had to raise it a few times. The page has €1,100 now and we've more raised through other donations. We asked old friends and colleagues and everyone has been so generous. It's amazing."

He added that everyone is proud of Mia's act of kindness.

"We always support charities and wanted her to do something for charity as well. It's a good life lesson. The fact that she went and did it, we're so proud."

To donate go to: https://www.facebook.com/keith.mcmahon.963/posts/10158621264896275.