AN ANDOVER woman will shave her head on her birthday to raise funds for her best friend’s daughter who has been diagnosed with cancer.

Sarah Maspero, from Weyhill Road, decided she wanted to do something to support her friend Nicky Dunn, also from Andover, and her 14-year-old daughter, Rae, who was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year.

She told the Advertiser: “Early in the summer, Rae found a lump which was removed and found to be cancer, synovial sarcoma. She has been told to start chemo straight away and radiotherapy for between three to six months.”

She continued: “She is 14 years old, the treatment may have long term effects on her heart, kidneys, and make her infertile. She will lose her hair and feel ill throughout. Her mum will not be working and will be with her throughout the treatment which means lots of overnight stays in hospital, with no income.”

In addition, Rae and Nicky will have to spend Christmas this year in a hospital in either Manchester or London, for further specialised radiotherapy which could take up to six weeks to complete.

Sarah, who works as a customer assistant in Sainsbury’s added that this was “a lot for a young girl to be put through”, especially being so far from home, and so she decided she would try and raise £3,000 so that Rae and her mum can “enjoy a nice, carefree Christmas, wherever they may be”.

The 37-year-old has chosen to shave her head on her birthday, October 21, but is keeping the fundraising appeal a secret from Nicky and Rae, so that she can surprise them.

“I have never had short hair and I have always had a fringe as I hate my forehead, so this is a massive challenge for me, but I’m grateful not to be ill,” she said.

“Rae is going through the bigger challenge. Any support you can give would be so appreciated and help me get this done!”

Synovial sarcoma is a cancer that can come from different types of soft tissue, such as muscle or ligaments.

Sarcoma is the medical name for a cancerous tumour, while soft tissue is the medical name for the parts of your body – other than bone – that connect, support or surround other parts. It includes fat, muscle, blood vessels, nerves, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, deep skin tissues and the tissue around your joints.

The appeal in aid of Rae has already raised nearly £2,500. For updates on Sarah’s fundraising journey, or to make a donation, visit: gofund.me/27f3a42d.