Challenge is a close shave

By Kath Gannaway
JESSICA Hastie was looking forward to getting on with life after two major back operations.
Her plans were short-lived with the discovery of an aneurysm in her brain but the resilient 19-year-old from Healesville was determined to turn yet another set-back into a positive.
Jessica had surgery last year for scoliosis of the spine. She had five ribs removed and rods put in her spine.
“After the second operation the doctors found the aneurysm,” said her mother, Sue Staines, last week, just a few days before Jessica was to undergo surgery for the anurism.
“She has been through a lot and after finishing school the year before last has just concentrated on getting well,” she said.
Discovering the aneursym was a shock but Jessica had shaved her head to raise funds for leukaemia research while at Healesville High and did the Relay for Life which also raises funds for the Cancer Council.
“I had to have my head shaved for the operation so we decided to use it to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation,” Jessica said.
She raised more than $700 in the first five days of collecting in Healesville thanks to terrific support from the Grand Hotel patrons and local businesses.
With mum and brother providing moral support, Jessica was admirably calm as she had her number three haircut done by Natalie Snow at Body-Glow in Healesville on Thursday.
While Jessica is a champion at taking life’s challenges in her stride, she gets satisfaction out of being able to help others in the process.
Anyone wishing to make a donation can call on 0413 941 959 or make a donation at KG on Maroondah or Sweet Magnolia in Maroondah Highway, Healesville, or at Body Glow in the East End.