Shropshire Star

Mother and daughter get the chop to help raise funds for youngster's cancer appeal

A mother and daughter have chopped off their long hair to help raise funds for a family friend’s potentially life-saving treatment in America.

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Katie Al-Sadek with Josie and Gemma

Dulcie O’Kelly, from Lawley, was diagnosed with Stage 4 neuroblastoma in December.

Her family have started fundraising appeal to help pay for potentially life-saving treatment in the USA.

Josie and Gemma share a smile
Josie had 17 inches cut off her hair
Gemma had 20 inches cut off her hair

Family friends Gemma and Josie Sprague are hoping to contribute £1,500 towards the appeal, and are currently more than 80 per cent of the way towards their target.

They paid a visit to the new salon at Queensway School, in Dawley, where Gemma is a PE teacher, to have their long locks cut off and help boost the funds.

Josie had 17 inches cut off by hairdresser Katie Al-Sadek, while Gemma’s hair was trimmed by 20 inches.

Measuring up
The moment of truth as Josie loses her pony-tail

They are donating it to the Little Princess Trust, which makes wigs for children who have lost their hair due to cancer treatment.

Stuart Sprague, deputy head teacher at Queensway School in Telford, is Gemma’s husband, and Josie’s father.

He said: “Dulcie is a beautiful, bubbly, brave school friend of Josie’s, and we wanted to do something to support this incredible cause. We’re really grateful to all those who have already donated.

Gemma checks out her daughter's new look
Dulcie and her mum Debbie

“Josie and Gemma love having long hair but are both asking for sponsors to get it cut off to a bob, to help Dulcie’s crucial fundraising for treatment.

“Dulcie’s parents have created their own gofundme page to raise funds for experimental treatments which they’ve been told would cost anything from £200,000 to £250,000.

“Any donations Gemma and Josie receive from their fundraising efforts will be transferred to their main account.”

To make a donation, or find out more about the fundraising appeal, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/treatment-funds-for-dulcie

People can also follow Dulcie’s journey on Instagram @dulcies_neuroblastoma_journey

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