Sgt Pirovano said her brother, Mike, also known as Spike, died on December 31, 2006, just three weeks before his 50th birthday, following a battle with mantle cell lymphoma with blastic cells.
"It's just great the number of people who have given money. I know it's hard - there are so many charities out there, [but] the money raised here will stay here to look after people."
Before her appointment at the Arrowtown Hair Company, Sgt Pirovano admitted to being slightly nervous about losing her long locks.
"Last time I remember having it really short was when I was 9.
"I feel like I've been naughty and I'm in prison and they're chopping my hair off."
However, just over two hours later, Sgt Pirovano emerged beaming from the salon - having not been allowed to look in the mirror during the appointment.
When she was finally allowed to see the end result she did not recognise herself.
"It's a wonderful feeling." Donations are still being accepted for Sgt Pirovano's "Short Cut for Cancer" for the Cancer Society, through fundraiseonline.co.nz or internet banking - ANZ, a/c number 01-0867-0200021-05 Kate Pirovano, ref: Cancer Society.
