Richmond fans will know Ben Nason as a speedy midfielder with a huge mop of blonde dreadlocks.

The second-year Tiger, who made an instant impact in the 2010 season with 19 games and 14 goals, revealed publicly this week that his mother, Wendy, had battled breast cancer for the best part of 12 months.

In support of his mum, the 21-year-old will take the shearers to his hairdo this week, losing the dreadlocks for the first time since he was 16.

The pair is looking to raise money for the McGrath Foundation, which aims to place breast care nurses in communities across Australia, and educate young women to become breast aware.

Breast cancer is a disease that currently affects one in nine Australian women of all ages and backgrounds.

Ben’s hair transformation can be seen on Roar Vision at midday on Friday May 6.

To donate to the McGrath Foundation, visit https://www.gofundraise.com.au/page/Nason