EDGE Community Services in Hoppers Crossing on Friday, March 28 will be hosting the World’s Greatest Shave to raise money and awareness for blood cancer research.
Between 11-1pm, the community is invited to come along and learn a bit about blood cancers.
Battling rare blood cancers is something EDGE’s Jo Mumford is all too familiar with.
Diagnosed with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), a rare form of blood cancer, on her 50th birthday, her life took a dramatic turn.
Ms Mumford went through chemotherapy for two weeks and had the cancer in remission.
The good news was quickly soured when was then diagnosed with another rare blood cancer, essential thrombocythaemia (ET).
Her daughter eldest Simmone has been by her side on the journey.
“It was like an exciting moment to have the treatment work, but then to find out she has another very rare condition was sad,” Simmone said.
Despite the challenges and intensive treatment, Ms Mumford is getting on with things.
“She is a very strong woman, works five days a week and still lives her normal life,” Simmone said.
“It’s very hard, but we have to stay strong for mum, she makes us stronger.”
The event, which will continue annually, has the objective of raising a thousand dollars on the day .
But Simmone wants people to take home a message to keep long after the event.
“That it can happen to anyone, and keep your loved ones close.”
A jumping castle, barbecue, baked goods, face paint, music and the chance to shave or colour hair will ensure guests have plenty to eat and do.
Jaidyn Kennedy
