Mindy Wilson was simply living her dream – the business she envisioned was open and Wilson was thriving.
But cruel and unfair circumstances have forced her away from her passion, and into a fight. Wilson was recently diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, and upon the news the Norco woman’s fellow community members have rallied around her in support.
On July 27, Boomerang’s Bar in Destrehan will host a pastalaya and jambalaya fundraiser as well as a special raffle to help Wilson in her fight against the illness. Boomerang’s is partnering with Ain’t Misbehavin’ Social Club to put on the event, which will run from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Multiple raffle prizes, ranging from smaller ($5) to larger ($20) ticket items, will be in play with ticket costs. Music will be provided by DJ Vince. The raffle drawing will begin at 6 p.m. on the day of the event.
Confirmed items include a $540 limo ride for eight people; a $500 value pressure washing gift card; two tickets to the San Francisco 49ers at New Orleans Saints game on Sept. 14 and a raised outdoor ice chest with bottle opener.
Wilson opened a salon business, Sashay By Salon, in Norco at the beginning of the year. She’s affectionately nicknamed “Fancy” by those who know her, and so many do. In addition to her work as a stylist, she’s been a popular bartender. A GoFundMe (titled Help Mindy fight Stage 4 breast cancer) was set up by friends to help Wilson and her family navigate the financial toll of the situation. They described her as “sunshine in human form, the kind of person who would drop everything to help a friend, or make you feel beautiful and brave when you needed it most.”
Berma Gauley, manager of Boomerang’s, said the news of Wilson’s illness was heartbreaking, but that she’s got plenty of people in her corner for this battle.
“She loves hair dressing and she was so motivated to open her own business. She was a bartender and she moved on from that to (open the salon). We’ve been so proud of her,” said Gauley. “She knew what she wanted to do with her life and she made it happen. We really just want to do everything we can and make sure she can beat this.”
The challenge Wilson faces is obviously difficult on several levels. The cancer is aggressive and has spread into her lymph nodes and bones, so her road ahead is intensive. She has already begun treatment, which includes chemotherapy and radiation.
Gauley said Wilson’s shoulder had been hurting and she’d gone to get a mammogram. Doctors found cause for concern, and upon further testing those fears were confirmed.
She said Wilson is very well-liked and has a magnetic personality.
“She’s a lot of fun. She’s such an awesome person and always lights up a room,” said Kady Huszar, Gauley’s daughter.
The GoFundMe page has raised more than $4,000 for her cause. T-Shirts are also being sold to raise money for Wilson – the words “Shear Strength” and “Fight for Fancy” are displayed on each in a show of support (the Ain’t Misbehaven’ Facebook page provides a link to purchase). All proceeds from the shirt sales go to support the cause.
