From becoming famous as the only female member of the So Solid Crew, to modeling, a solo career, appearances on TV shows, and more recently launching her own online fashion store and blog, Lisa Maffia is proving to be a versatile success and a pioneering businesswoman. Despite huge success and acclaim, recent events within her family have changed her perspective on life.
Lisa is taking part in Race For Life on 30th July 2011 on Clapham Common. Her mum was diagnosed with cervical cancer in April, which has now spread to other parts of her body. As I talk to her I realise how strong she is. She does not for one moment sound like she is letting it take over her life, she is concentrating on staying positive and focusing on the race, and by doing this, raising money for Cancer Research UK. ‘It really takes over so much of your life, how many people it affects and the money it costs for the treatment. Chemo is really expensive it cost hundreds of thousands per patient, and there’s so many people that need it. Just seeing it with my own eyes really woke me up to see the input this charity has with cancer.’ I don’t think anyone really takes notice of certain charities to do with disabilities or illness until it happens to someone in your family or friends. As they say ignorance is bliss, but you can’t ignore it when it’s affecting someone so close to you.
Cancer Research UK carries out vital work and constantly needs new equipment in the journey to fight cancer for each individual person. ‘Your type of chemo is custom made to your blood type, your weight and lifestyle. There is so much that is put into each persons treatment.’ Race For Life is so fundamental in raising money and awareness,’ Lisa tells me, ‘you can support by taking part in the race it’s £14 to sign up per person for Race for Life. You can raise money personally yourself or donate to any team you want; there are hundreds of thousands of teams. You can also volunteer to work with the charity on the more admin sides of things.’
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