By Luke Voogt
Leopold guitarist Steve Hanan is supporting two-year-old niece Willow’s battle against leukaemia the way he knows best – through music.
He and bandmate Fritzie Punsalang will gig Geelong next month to raise money for the “vivacious” Pepper Pig and beach enthusiast.
“I’m not a doctor, I can’t fight the disease,” Steve said, “but if I can help support her in this way I will.”
Doctors diagnosed Willow with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia few months ago, Steve said.
“It was just devastating,” Steve said.
Willow had already undergone red blood and plasma transfusions but needed many more, according to a fundraising internet page for her.
“She’s already had to endure a spinal tap and bone marrow test and has been poked, prodded, jabbed and yet manages to smile in between it all,” the page said.
Steve said he loved being one of Willow’s “fun uncles”.
He described the toddler as energetic, inquisitive, fun-loving and intelligent.
“She likes to run around outside.”
Steve, whose brother, Greg, a former Ocean Grove resident, is Willow’s father, said he couldn’t imagine what her immediate family was going through.
Steve, who plays in acoustic duo Salted Fish, will join Fritzie on state at The Workers Club on 22 October.
Other local acts will join them for the eight-hour gig, including Greg’s old band, The River Snakes.
“They supported bands like The Screaming Jets,” Steve said.
The fundraising page is at gofundme.com/mmmtj-help-for-willow.
