Cutting our hair for Bron and sarcoma

In November of 2020 my beautiful sister Bron was diagnosed with Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath sarcoma, better described as a soft-tissue tumour. It's a rare cancer (less than 1% of adult cancers) and in Bron's case was an 11cm tumour in her right calf. Bron had 28 rounds of radiation and in February of 2021, major surgery on her right calf with a reconstruction from her left thigh.

Unfortunately, routine follow up scans in September of 2021 found that it had spread into multiple "lesions" (aka small tumours) around Bron's body as well as an aggressive 6cm tumour in my upper back. Another 15 rounds of radiation, surgery in December 2021 and plans for chemotherapy to control the remaining lesions followed.

With amazing good fortune, a genetic mutation was found in Bron's tumours which made her eligible for a trial drug instead of chemo and that began in February through the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne.
Despite an ongoing battle with side effects, results so far have been "ridiculously good" and things are looking like nothing but a miracle, a much recognised, and not taken for granted blessing.

Oh the 12th of July, in sarcoma month, Bron recieved the news. "my wonderful specialist called with the results of my latest PET scan which were “amazing” and “like nothing ever happened”. As well as being good news in its own right, it’s not something I had ever thought I would hear after the second diagnosis, so I am thrilled!

For those playing at home, that’s Bron: 2, Cancer: 0."

During Bron's journey, the only way I could support her in what felt like a helpless scary situation was 1) send her a photo of a flower a day. And 2) stop cutting my short hair in the thought of cutting it off for Bron when the time is right.

Well with the above news, now is the time. 4 years of hair, to be cut off to my shoulders, to raise awareness of sarcoma and the importance of donating and supporting research.
Because without a grant 4 weeks prior to Bron's second tumor removal, things would be very different. The researchers incredible work have Bron a chance to fight. It has go be her time.

My amazing son, and Bron's, nephew will be also cutting his hair for Bron, at the same time.

I have small goal, as this is our second fundraising adventure this year for Bron, but if it is to raise awareness of Sarcoma and the incredible organisations and charities fighting for cure, I'm content with that.

So when I have reached my goal, I'll be organising the great chop.

Bron, we love you so much.