Sisters come to aid of their mate
TWO Townsville sisters are on a mission to raise funds to help their housemate beat breast cancer.
Heidi Willey said her friend Jade Wahapa was a fit and healthy 37- year- old before her life was turned upside down following a sudden cancer diagnosis in April this year.
“One day she felt a lump in her breast and went to see her GP who started initial testing,” Ms Willey said. “Approximately three weeks later she was diagnosed with breast cancer, which came as a huge shock.”
Jade has paid around $ 20,000 towards hospital and specialist bills to date and Heidi and sister Kahlee Lyne are hoping a fitness fundraiser this weekend can assist Jade with medical expenses.
“Many people don’t realise the amount of out of pocket expenses there are in relation to initial testing and diagnosis of the cancer and then ongoing treatment costs,” Ms Willey said.
The sisters described Jade as a kind- hearted, loyal and thoughtful friend who never asked for anyone’s help.
“Throughout this battle ( Jade) has never wanted to cause a fuss or bring attention to herself and very rarely will complain about what has happened to her and what she still has to endure,” Ms Willey said.
The charity event will be held at HIT360 gym in Garbutt, where the trio first became friends.
“The fundraiser is about getting together and doing what we love in the place that we love where we all met and got to know Jade and raise some money ( for her),” Ms Willey said.
“This fundraiser will help her see that she is not doing this alone and we are all here to support her.”
The fundraiser will be held this Saturday from 6am at HIT360 in Garbutt.
Anyone is welcome to come along and $ 20 cash per person includes a one- hour session, BBQ brekkie, coffee and entry into lucky door prizes.