Banbury woman 'Braves the Shave' to help Macmillan Cancer Support charity

Ellen, from Banbury, shaved her head in memory of three relatives - her brother, Henry Duckett, her sister, Maria Russell and her father-in-law, Sidney Holloway, who all lost battles with cancer.

She has raised nearly £500 to help the cancer support charity through the 'Brave the Shave' challenge. James Boswell, from James Boswell Hair Design in the town centre, shaved her head yesterday, Thursday September 10.

Anyone who would like to contribute to Ellen 'Brave the Shave' fundraising challenge can use the following web link: https://bravetheshave.macmillan.org.uk/shavers/ellen-hollowayShe said: "I have decided to take part in the brave shave to raise much needed funds for Macmillan cancer care. Macmillan was there for me when I was told that a mole I had removed from my left calf was cancerous. They are also there for help and support for countless of other people suffering from all types of cancer.

"I have previously lost my sister to metastatic breast cancer at the age of 51. I lost my brother at the age of 39 to a cancerous brain tumour five years after he was diagnosed with skin cancer and my wonderful father-in-law to brain cancer.

"Out of four children three of us have had it, and two have died. I am okay right now. Cancer is now survivable."

Ellen stressed the importance of an early diagnosis.

She added: "Therefore I know first hand how important Macmillan Cancer Support are. Macmillan nurses are there to give help, support, understanding and advice when you need it most.