A group of Broughty Ferry boys has raised more than £5,000 after shaving their heads for their friend who has been diagnosed with cancer.
Scarlett Harper, 13, was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma in March this year, and has since been receiving treatment.
But the community, her school and close friends have rallied around her, ensuring she and her family know they’re not alone.
Scarlett’s mum, Leila, says: “We had a dreadful year last year when we lost my dad and the twins’ beloved Papa, Stewart, to cancer. So Scarlett’s diagnosis came as a bolt.
“Everyone’s support means the world. Scarlett has a positive attitude and is very strong willed. We’ll get through with bumps along the way.”
Ewing sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that affects bones or the tissue around bones. It mainly affects children and young people, but can also be seen in adults.
“Scarlett loves Monty Python and ‘older’ music, such as The Monkees, The Beatles and Joni Mitchell.
“She’s extremely kind and empathises with others and tries to help. And she has a wicked sense of humour.”
‘We were overwhelmed’
Scarlett and her group of friends attend Grove Academy and have been a tight-knit group since primary school.
The boys didn’t want Scarlett to go through treatment alone, so have been raising the money through shaving their heads – a gesture that has been greatly appreciated.
Leila continues: “We as a family were overwhelmed by all of Scarlett’s friends, and her twin brother Jude, wanting to help and show their support.
“When she heard they were going to shave their heads, she initially told them not to be daft!
“We know the twins have great friends and they are very protective of Scarlett. She is very loved.
“It was so emotional seeing the boys coming together to help. They are little heroes.
“I’m so grateful to their families for organising it all and luckily Scarlett and I got home from hospital in Edinburgh to join in for a bit.
“They all look great and Scarlett got some beautiful presents from her friends’ families.”
‘Our family is in awe of the kindness shown’
The money raised will go towards some of the wards at the hospitals in Glasgow and Edinburgh Scarlett has been receiving care from.
The rest will be given to Scarlett to give her something to look forward to after treatment.
Leila says: “Seeing the donations come in from all different people, friends, colleagues, teachers and family, has been emotional. We are truly humbled and grateful.
“I would like to say a huge thank you and much love to those who have donated so far. Scarlett is amazed how many people care.
“Our family is in awe of the kindness shown, sometimes by complete strangers.
“We have the best friends and families supporting us and can’t thank the NHS enough for what they’ve done so far.”
- To donate to the fundraiser for Scarlett, visit the JustGiving page.
