Cancer has been a big part of Marissa Williamson’s life.
Her nan had breast cancer in 2002 and now has lung and throat cancer. Her pop had bowel cancer. Marissa’s aunt also had cancer.
Earlier this year, the 15-year-old Manor Lakes College student launched a BLUSH campaign, raising funds for people battling cancer and awareness of the disease’s many forms.
“I just feel like cancer isn’t spoken about enough,” she said.
“I decided to launch this campaign and it started from there. I began talking to other people about cancer.”
She said talking to others about their dealings with cancer had been a good experience, particularly meeting those who had gone through similar situations.
The campaign has so far raised $500, but Marissa says it’s the conversations and awareness being raised that is most important.
On Friday, her campaign took on a new form when she decided to shave her hair off.
More than 100 students gathered in the school’s courtyard as she said goodbye to her long locks in honour of people who had lost their hair during chemotherapy.
School assistant principal Peter Walsh took to the clippers to shave her head.
To donate to Marissa’s campaign: www.gofundme.com/2sg5utud
