The nurse will lose her long locks to draw attention to – and raise valuable funds for – cystic fibrosis (CF) and multiple sclerosis (MS).

One of Ms Neal’s friends was recently diagnosed with MS and is unlikely to be able to walk in 15 years.

“Can you imagine that?” she said.

The condition affects the immune system, resulting in complicated nerve damage that disrupts communication between the brain and the body.

Another friend, diagnosed with CF, spends weeks away from her loved ones at The Alfred hospital in Melbourne undergoing physiotherapy, respiratory therapy and courses of intravenous antibiotics.

“This combined with the daily medication regime makes school and work life very difficult to maintain,” Ms Neal said.

“These conditions have a significant impact on the person’s physical and mental health. They both need cures.”

CF, an inherited condition, affects the ability for the lungs to clear effectively, leading to irreversible damage.

Although lung transplants are not an option for everybody, Ms Neal is encouraging people to sign up as organ donors.

She also wants to raise $5000 to be evenly split between Cystic Fibrosis Australia and MS Research Australia.

On Saturday, October 7, her long hair will be completely shaved off to symbolise the physical and emotional difficulties those with the conditions face.

The fundraising event, dubbed ‘Danni dares to lose her hair’, will take place at The Seanchai in Warrnambool from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.

The afternoon will include an art auction featuring work by local artists and music by The Cheese Brothers.

Entrants to a prize draw set up to help Ms Neal reach her target will have the chance to win a Port Fairy Folk Festival ticket, a Pickled Pig degustation dinner for two and other prizes donated by businesses.

Visit mycause.com.au/page/142539/danni-dares-to-lose-her-hair to find out more and to donate.