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Rachel Edgar is a familiar and much-loved face at the club – not only as a member but also as part-time staff. Her wicked sense of humour and infectious energy light up the members' bar, where she’s often seen relaxing with her beloved dogs, Toby and Nala.
Recently, Rachel has faced some life-changing health challenges. In a powerful show of strength and generosity, she shaved her head at the Club amongst friends and family to support charities close to her heart, raising over £1,400. We caught up with Rachel ahead of her upcoming brain surgery. Here’s her inspiring story, in her own words... |
Club Chairman Nick Howes had the honour of making the first cut as Rachel began her head shave
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"I’ve been coming to the club for a while now, and it’s always felt like more than just a place - it’s a community. A space where I’ve felt supported, welcomed, and safe, especially while going through some of the hardest chapters of my life.
My health journey has been incredibly tough. I was diagnosed with epilepsy, a brain tumour, functional neurological disorder (FND), and brain damage caused by a seizure. Every day is unpredictable, and I’ve needed round-the-clock care at times. My family have been incredible, but it’s taken a toll on all of us. The next big step is brain surgery - an extremely invasive and daunting procedure, but it’s my best shot at a better future. It’s scary, but I need to take this chance at life. The club felt like the right place to shave my head - it’s familiar, it’s supportive, and it’s where I knew I wouldn’t be alone. I wanted to raise money for Epilepsy Action and The Brain Tumour Charity, but more than that, I wanted to do something bold and hopeful in the face of something so frightening. Shaving my head publicly gave me back a bit of strength. And doing it at the club made it feel safe, like I had a family around me. |
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Beforehand, I was emotional and overwhelmed. I felt the weight of everything I’ve been through, everything I’m about to go through. But during the shave, something shifted. I felt proud. Vulnerable, but powerful too. And I even managed to laugh - I joked, “I’m gonna get so sunburnt!” because I’m ginger and ALWAYS burn in the sun! Afterwards, I cried, but they were tears of release and gratitude. I felt lighter - not just physically, but emotionally too. It felt like I was shedding the fear and stepping into the next chapter with courage.
Even with everything going on, I still try to find moments to laugh and be silly and crack a few jokes. I have a terrible habit of singing really loudly to songs I don’t know the lyrics to and dancing in my kitchen like I'm on Strictly! I’m obsessed with my two dogs, Toby and Nala - they’ve been my little rocks throughout all of this along with all my friends and family down the club . This wasn’t just a head shave. It was a moment of reclaiming strength and finding purpose in something painful. I’m fighting every single day, not just for myself but for the people who love me - and for others who are going through similar things but maybe can’t find the words. If I can raise awareness, spark a conversation, or make someone feel less alone, then it’s all been worth it." |
Friend and club member Richard kindly performed the head shave with military precision
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Unveiling the Rememberence Bench and lampost.
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Megan and Chairman Nick Howes presenting the Deputy Head of Chapel Green School with her cheque
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