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Teen helping in the fight against breast cancer with hair scrunchies

Posted at 6:50 PM, Jan 06, 2020
and last updated 2020-01-08 18:44:00-05

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Jessica Washburn loved the times she spent with her grandmother who was diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago.

RELATED: More Breast Cancer coverage

She fought it, but two years later she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and lost her battle last year.

Jessica, who is 12 years old said, "I was speechless my grandmother was there for me all of the time."

In her memory, Jessica came up with the idea to make hair scrunchies to sell. She inherited her grandmother's sewing machine and got to work, selling scrunchies to school friends.

"And I said hey, this would be a good idea to make and we can raise money for a breast cancer charity."

She plans to donate the money to Susan G. Komen Florida. Jessica hopes other teenagers will also help raise money in the fight against breast cancer and participate in Race for the Cure on Jan. 25 in downtown West Palm Beach."

Carlton Washburn, Jessica's grandfather, is proud of her.

"I think it's great. it's good of her. How many children do you find that will think of doing that," he said.

Jessica will cherish memories of her grandmother.

"My grandmother had the sweetest heart and everything. I loved her so much and she's just done all of these amazing things," said Jessica.