Lizze says it with flowers for mum - HC 08/02/2007 - Front Page

Lizze says it with flowers for mum

(Hampshire Chronicle 08/02/2007 - Front Page), Picture: Terry Bond

FOR 13-year-old Lizze McLean, selling roses for Valentine’s Day is a gesture of love in more ways than one.

Her mum, Dr Victoria McLean, 38, is battling breast cancer, and to show her support, the Year 8 Kings’ School pupil will sell pink roses at the school with all profits going to Cancer Research UK.

The roses are pink because they match the breast cancer awareness campaign.

Starting next Monday (February 12) pupils can buy a rose from Lizze anonymously for £1.80.   All they need to do is write on a slip of paper the person who is to receive the rose, and put it in a box.

Lizze lives with her mum, dad John and brother, 11, in Quarry Road, Winchester.

Dr McLean said she was diagnosed with the disease a year ago.

She has responded well to treatment, but has since found another lump and is awaiting the result of tests.

She said: “I am really touched by this and incredibly proud of Lizze.

“From finding a flower wholesaler to getting a delivery team, she had done it all herself.

“Cancer Research UK not only raises awareness of breast cancer, but other forms of the illness too and the disease touches an awful lot of people.
“I would encourage women across the country to check their breasts on a regular basis – it saved my life.”

Lizze, who is organising the rose sale with her friend Sarah Mitchell, said “I decided that since there is a large market for roses on Valentine’s Day, I would do a fundraiser for Cancer Research UK.

“It is worrying sometimes, but we try to keep as positive as possible.

“You only have one chance at life and you need to enjoy it.  A lot of my friends are helping and you really find out who your friends are with something like this.”