FRIENDS of a woman who died of lung cancer at just 34 years old are raising money for the charity which supported her during her battle.

Charmaine Omahony – formerly Kalebaila – was well-known in her hometown of Basildon and described by friends as “funny, kind and big-hearted”.

She was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2012 and passed away two years later in 2014, leaving behind two sons, a husband, and a loving family and friends.

By the time Charmaine was diagnosed, the lung cancer was already in its advanced stages, meaning treatment was only to prolong her life and not to try to cure her.

Her best friend, Hazel Williams, 41, said: “Everyone loved her.

“She had time for everyone and would do anything for anyone.

“Even towards the end she was out shopping on her own.

“She was so strong and brave.

“She was also an excellent mother to her two sons who are now 17, and 20.

“She didn’t want anyone to be negative or sad.

“She wanted everyone to remain positive and hopeful.

“She stood up to cancer and fought it her hardest.”

Charmaine even fundraised for Macmillan herself while she was still alive after the support she received from them.

Hazel, who had been friends with Charmaine since they were eight years old, will be holding a music event at the Jolly Friar, in Basildon, along with a raffle to raise funds for Macmillan and also to commemorate the fifth year anniversary since Charmaine’s death on December 3.

Hazel will also be asking local businesses if they can donate gifts for 12-year-old, Laila Rose, also from Basildon, who has recently been diagnosed with a brain tumour and will have to undergo more than 60 rounds of chemotherapy.

Hazel added: “Charmaine fundraised a lot herself and would also want everyone to be thinking of Laila Rose, who is currently going through chemotherapy.”

The event will take place at 7pm on December 6, at The Jolly Friar pub, Whitmore Way, in Basildon.

Donations are welcome.

There will be people taking collections at the door as well as collection boxes at the bar.

Hazel added: “We have made the event a drum and bass and garage night, along with big name DJs as Charmaine loved music, dancing and going out.

“She was always happy.”

There is also a JustGiving page for those who cannot attend the event or anyone who would like to donate.

So far, more than £143 has been raised online.

To make a donation via JustGiving, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/hazel-williams24