School boys shave hair to support Glasgow teen, 16, who is battling cancer

At least 50 Stonelaw High School S5 and S6 pupils have got behind Jack Flexney who was diagnosed with a condition called Medulloblastoma after an MRI last August.

The popular footballer, who lives in Castlemilk, has missed out on most of the school year while he receives treatment for two tumours in his head.

Pictures and video: Kirsty Anderson

But his school community has shown they are thinking of him during this difficult time by getting haircuts at Slicks Barber Shop in Rutherglen.

READ MORE: Watch as brave Glasgow woman shaves off hair for husband battling MND

Jack’s proud mum Janice, 47, said: “It is heart-warming to know my son is liked and popular.

“It makes him feel good to know all his pals are behind him. From the minute he went into the hospital, they have all been fantastic.”

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The family, including dad Paul, 54, and sisters Brooke, 21, Alex, 22 and Genna, 26, have been overwhelmed by the support they received since Jack’s diagnosis.

Slicks Barber Shop staff held a 24-hour haircut marathon to raise money for the Beatson Cancer Charity while a football festival was recently held in Toryglen in support of the family.

Now his school is doing all they can to support Jack. Teachers grew moustaches throughout November while a Christmas jumper day was held to raise money for the Beatson Cancer Charity.

Plans are also in place for a charity football match in April for pupils and staff.

Alan Urquhart, who is Jack’s pupil support teacher at the school, said: “Jack was diagnosed early on in the school year and he has not been in school since then because of his treatment.

“All the boys, not just in his year group S5 but the year above S6, and some in the junior school, almost in solidarity with him because he is going through treatment, have all shaved their heads.

“They have got the number one or two haircuts in solidarity with Jack to say that they are thinking about him, he is important to them and he is part of the family at Stonelaw.”

He added: “It speaks volumes as to how Jack is thought of among his friends and peers.

“As a member of staff, I am really touched by it actually. I think it shows the depth of friendship that exists and also the depth of maturity and understanding that these young boys have got regarding the illness.

“I am thoroughly impressed by them, they are a great bunch.

“As a school, we are thoroughly behind Jack and support him. We are keeping our fingers crossed that everything works out well for him in terms of his treatment.

“He comes from a nice and humble family and I am sure the support they have given him has been absolutely invaluable.

“As a school, we are looking forward to getting him back in sixth year.”