Andrea makes a difference

But we might have found just that person after chatting to a Coogee resident set to take part in a charity dash through the streets of Fremantle on June 29.

Andrea Mrsa has taken part in a number charity events, ticking off the Mother’s Day Classic, the Big Walk for PMH, the Walk to Cure Diabetes and the Santos Great Bike Ride, among others.

On June 29 she will take part in the Leukaemia Foundation’s Sunflower Dash, a 500m or 3.5km run, walk, ride or skip through Fremantle.

The event supports people with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and related blood disorders, using a sunflower to represent the importance of emotional support for those coping with disease.

Ms Mrsa is taking part to raise money for a friend’s nephew diagnosed with leukaemia when he was just three years old.

‘The family are from Geraldton and have to travel four hours to Perth so he can get treatment,’ she said.

‘With the family unable to work full time, travel and medical expenses for this little boy are tight.

‘I do it to make a difference and it only brings it closer to the heart when it’s for my friends and their families.’

Besides charity events, Ms Mrsa works as a nurse at Fremantle hospital.

She said a nurse who cared for her after she was diagnosed with diabetes inspired her career choice.

‘She brightened up the room and I wanted to do the same thing for people in hospital,’ she said.

‘Everyone deserves the greatest life but some aren’t as lucky as others. That’s why I choose to do what I do and be part of these events, it’s my way of helping.’

Leukaemia Foundation general manager Andrew York said funds raised would go towards free services not supported by ongoing government funding.

‘Our Sunflower Dash will lift the spirits of everyone – those taking part, the unsuspecting public nearby, and the families who will benefit from free support when they need it most,’ he said.

For more information visit sunflowerdash.org.au or check out the ‘Our Friend Seth’ Facebook page.