Ball to raise cash for cancer treatment

Emma Meeres, 25, of Cantelupe Road, Bexhill, organised the event after her best friend Kate Ryan, also 25, was diagnosed with the disease late last year.

She said: "I have known Kate since I was 13 as we both went to Bexhill High School together.

"She is a truly incredible young woman and every woman I know should aspire to be as brave and strong as Kate is. I feel lucky to have her in my life.

"Kate recently moved to the USA and was sadly diagnosed with breast cancer some months later.

"She opted to have a double mastectomy (the removal of both breasts). As if this wasn't difficult enough, she is now undergoing some of the strongest forms of chemotherapy.

"Kate has also recently taken the brave step of shaving her head and going back to work.

"She has a Green Card which means she is now a US citizen but cannot come back to the UK for NHS treatment.

"The USA does not provide any form of free treatment to cancer patients regardless of age or severity.

"Kate and her family are gathering together as many funds as possible in order for Kate to complete her treatment."

Emma said the treatment since January alone has cost at least $18,000 (around 11,700).

"For two small tablets which reduce nausea and vomiting following treatment, Kate is having to pay 150 after each traumatic chemotherapy session.

"We are all fortunate enough to have the NHS. If a British person is unfortunate enough to suffer with cancer, they are able to focus on getting better. Kate has much more than this to wake up to every morning."

Next Saturday's event, which has a pink theme, will be at Centre Stage, London Road, from 7.30pm. Tickets are 10 each.

Emma hopes at least 2,500 will be raised as the venue has room for 200 people.

James Hayes, senior manager of Centre Stage, has offered the venue free.

A raffle and aution of promises, some of which have been donated by Graham Norton, will also be held.

Tickets are available from Deb 'N Hair Salon next door to Centre Stage in London Road.

Alternatively, message Emma Meeres via Facebook to reserve tickets.