A YOUNG woman with a rare form of ovarian cancer is urging people to don wigs to back a charity.

Nicole Walker was diagnosed with germ cell teratoma of the ovary after two-and-half-years of stomach problems.

Having been supported by CLIC Sargent through her ordeal, the 20-year-old is now giving something back by supporting Wig Wednesday.

The 20-year-old said: "The help that I've seen CLIC Sargent give other people has also been absolutely brilliant.

"I still go to the support group and now, because I'm one of the longest-serving members, I am able to offer advice to other young people and help them out too.

"I tell them about Tracy, my community worker, and what she's done for me and how she could help them too.

"I'm wearing my wig because it creates aware-ness of childhood cancers and provides reassurance to others like me that wearing a wig can make a huge difference in terms of boosting your confidence."

As first told in the Evening Times in 2011, Nicole's tumour ruptured during her driving test.

Her GP sent the then-schoolgirl straight to hospital where surgeons removed the tumour and her right ovary.

Nicole then had to have three months of intensive chemotherapy.

Throughout her treat-ment Nicole, from Stepps, North Lanarkshire, was supported by CLIC Sargent, which provides emotional, practical and financial support for children and young people coping with cancer.

She said: "Luckily, while having chemotherapy I had incredible support from CLIC Sargent, especially Tracy, who gave me and my family support and reassurance."

Nicole's treatment meant she had to give up school during her final year, but with Tracy's support she has now enrolled on a health and social care course at college.

And she hopes to one day study social work at university and work for organisations such as CLIC Sargent.

On May 21 the charity is encouraging thousands of people across the UK, in schools, offices and community groups, to wear wigs for the day to raise money and show support for children and young people like Nicole.

Katie Turton, CLIC Sargent fundraising campaigns manager, said: "Nicole looks absolutely brilliant in her wig and we are thrilled she is joining in with this year's campaign.

"Wig Wednesday is in its third year and has already proved to be a hugely successful fundraising event for CLIC Sargent with people up and down the UK choosing to get their wigs on.

"Every day 10 children and young people are diagnosed with cancer and fundraising events such Wig Wednesday help CLIC Sargent continue and expand our work with families whose lives have been turned upside down by cancer."

The charity helped more than 6000 people in 2012/13 and, as well as helping individuals, works to influence policy decisions that affect children and young people with cancer.

To get your school, business or community group involved in this year's Wig Wednesday see www.clicsargent.org.uk/wigwednesday or call 0845 1212 492.

catriona.stewart@ eveningtimes.co.uk