Linda Harsh is a hairstylist at Yardley’s Salon and Spa, a spa the Bowens opened in San Antonio in December of 2007. Harsh, who is 57, was diagnosed with breast cancer in February of 2006. In August of 2008, less than two years after beating breast cancer, doctors discovered a brain tumor. On August 8 she had a marble-sized cancerous tumor removed from the back left-side of her brain. Over the last three months Harsh has undergone a series of exams, radiation treatments and chemotherapy. Today, while still receiving treatments, she continues to work a full-time schedule at Yardley’s.

“Linda has touched everyone here,” said Bruce Bowen, who is involved in the day-to-day operations of the spa. “She has a fresh outlook on life. Her spirit, her strength and her attitude provide inspiration for me and for our entire staff. When you see what she has been through it is humbling and puts life in perspective.”

In the first of an annual fundraising drive, during the month of November Yardley’s will donate 20 percent of its gross revenues to the Linda Harsh Fund. At the end of the month, once the final figure has been tallied, Bowen will personally match the amount raised by the spa. In addition, donations can be made directly to the fund by members of the San Antonio community.

“There are many, many people who can’t afford the costs that go along with fighting cancer,” said Harsh, who has been a hairdresser for 40 years. “While I’m honored that Bruce and Yardley have created this fund, what really is important to me is that we’ll be able to help others as they battle this devastating illness.”

Each year the Linda Harsh Fund will select a cancer-based charitable organization to receive the funds collected in that year. The first recipient will be the Alamo Breast Cancer Foundation.

“I hope that by doing this we can always remember Linda,” said Bowen. “Our goal is to create a legacy for her while at the same time helping others in need.”

In future years, starting in 2009, Yardley’s Salon and Spa will donate 20 percent of proceeds during the month of October to correspond with National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

For information on how to make a personal donation please contact Yardley’s Salon and Spa at (210) 479-9300.