The Teenage Cancer Trust is a vital charity, close to many of us at school but especially significant to student and cancer survivor Natasha G, who was diagnosed with cancer just before her GCSEs. Now thankfully in remission, thanks to the help she received from TCT, Natasha and the school's Charity Committee are inviting pupils, parents, staff and friends of the school to don their most elaborate costumes this month and raise funds and spirits through this fancy dress fundraising.
Natasha's Story
Strathallan School student Natasha G was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma in 2019 and has spoken out about her personal journey and the support she received from friends, family and the Teenage Cancer Trust.
In a virtual chapel service broadcast to the school, Natasha spoke about the ups and downs of her recent fight with cancer, including accidentally dying her bathroom sink purple during an attempt to add colour to the hair which had returned after losing most of it to chemotherapy.
Now over a year in remission, the 17-year-old said it was funny moments like this that kept her spirits up and she hopes that by a leading funny fundraising project at school she can help raise crucial funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust, a charity that was fundamental to her journey.
Natasha said, “I was just gearing up to take my GCSEs when I just couldn’t cope anymore. I spent months thinking I had a really bad cold but I was eventually diagnosed with Stage Two Hodgkin Lymphoma. My family really came together and I got lots of support from my school friends and the girls in my boarding house, they were all amazing and I was determined to get better.
“Because I was being treated on the Children’s Cancer Ward, it was a shock to see the younger kids in hospital. I was the only teenager on the ward at the time but because of the Teenage Cancer Trust, I got a room in their hub and it meant I could get support tailored to my needs. The charity brought lots of teenagers going through cancer together and this network of people my own age has been invaluable. It’s small but incredibly important projects like this that I want to help support.”
Rev Jonny Wylie, Strathallan Chaplain, said, “Natasha’s bravery in battling cancer and now speaking out about her journey is incredible and the whole school wants to support her cause. This March we will be asking all our pupils, parents, staff and friends of the Strathallan to dress up in fancy dress for the first three Wednesdays of the month. We hope to support the Teenage Cancer Trust which continues to ensure no young adult ever feels alone.”
Fancy-Dress Themes for the Month
- Wednesday 3rd March - Formal Fancy Dress Anything from suits/dresses to dinner jackets and bow-ties
- Wednesday 10th March - Memes Become your favourite meme irl and show your support (those over 25 might need help from a sibling or child)
- Wednesday 17th March - St. Patrick's Day Dress code: Green
Those interested in getting involved can email our School Chaplain for donation details and more information:
