Since losing her friend to the illness, the Singleton woman read more about it.

“We lost her within months of her diagnosis which was really hard on everyone,” she said.

“It became very clear how important it [was] to increase the awareness of this terrible disease and to raise funds for research.

“Brain cancer is deadly and survival rates are low.

“I know a lot of people are touched by it.

“Following a heartfelt discussion with my mum, a knitter from way-back, the decision to host a Beanie for Brain Cancer Fundraiser was born.”

The local woman said the Mark Hughes Foundation was an obvious choice of beneficiary for the Singleton Presbyterian church event.

“Money raised is used to fund vital brain cancer research and to support patients and families suffering from the disease,” she said.

The event has received widespread support in the community, with groups like the Singleton Crafters joining the effort to create beautiful home-made beanies and berets for all ages, to be sold on the day.

The Beanie for Brain Cancer Fundraiser will be on Friday, June 23, from 10.30am to 1pm, at the Singleton Presbyterian Church Hall, Elizabeth Street.

There will be lucky door prizes, and a $5 donation for Devonshire tea.

And, of course, a large selection of hats will be available.

“Please come along, bring a friend and buy a beanie or two to fight brain cancer,” Ms Russell said.

“100 per cent of the proceeds of the event are going to the Mark Hughes Foundation.

“It’s a group effort and all the beanies are made with love.

“There’s a lot of selection.

“It’s something that I’m passionate about.

“We wanted to do something in honour of our friend, so [she] doesn’t become a statistic.”

For more information about the Beanie for Brain Cancer event, contact Myree on 0413 745 878 or at russell2250@bigpond.com