Washington hairdresser is battling cancer for second time aged just 38

Laura Armstrong (Left) is raising money to buy her sister Clare Armstrong-Hawitt a wig.

Clare Armstrong-Hawitt from Washington was diagnosed with cancer a year and a half ago where she underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy before being given a life long colostomy bag at 38-years-old.

The mum of three was hoping to get the all clear but then received the devastating news this month that she now has breast cancer and intense chemotherapy will mean she will lose her hair.

The hairdresser of 20-years said she was left “devastated” when she was told the news.

Clare with her partner Paul, and children Joshua (Right) Abigail and Harrison. Any extra money will goes towards a holiday for Clare and her family.

Clare said: “I was heartbroken, I still am because I do people’s hairs for a living so losing my own hair will be the hardest part.

"I was shocked when I was told that I had breast cancer and I just thought why me, but I’m a strong person and I always focus on the positives.”

Now, sister Laura Armstrong has launched a fundraiser to raise money to buy her sister Clare a wig following her diagnosis.

Laura is trying to raise funds to buy her sister a wig which costs over £1000.

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Laura said: “Clare is such a strong person and a very good hairdresser so when she was told she would lose her hair it was awful because losing your hair would be heartbreaking for anyone, let alone a hairdresser.

"The whole family are all devastated but Clare has already fought so much and she is always thinking of others before herself so that’s why I set up the fundraiser.”

Clare was hoping to return to work when hairdressers reopen in April but due to another 16 months of chemotherapy she will be unable to.

Clare said: “I try to think that I’m the strong one and I can cope with this so there’s less chance others will suffer, I cling to the positives like this fundraiser and I am so grateful to everyone that has donated, from clients to old friends, it’s really really nice.”

Sister Laura added: "This wig would mean the world to Clare and it will really help her to keep going and give her a confidence boost.”

You can find more information on donating to Clare’s fund here.

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