Starting fresh: Lena Kasparian raised funds for ovarian cancer as part of her entry into the Ms Australia Quest. Picture: Wesley Lonergan
LENA Kasparian is on a quest to start afresh this year.
The 34-year-old Fairfield-raised single mother of two will enter the Ms Australia Quest.
"It's a fresh start to a fresh year and after serious consideration, I thought it might be my time to shine and show the world I'm not hiding under a rock," she said.
"I've been styling for beauty pageants over the last five years and I felt this pageant most suited me, as they cater for all ages.
"They also support ovarian cancer."
That's why she hosted a high tea on Monday as part of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
Last year Ms Kasparian was acquitted of charges relating to her partner Marc Zartarian's death at their Wetherill Park home in 2011.
"I've learnt a lot in the last turbulent years," she said.
"My experiences have only made me a stronger woman and I am more determined to achieve my goals and to help make a difference.
"I would love to win the pageant, as the experience will open many doors and I will be a voice for all the women out there who have many struggles, whether it be cancer or domestic violence."
Cancer isn't a foreign subject in the Kasparian household.
"My grandfather died from prostate cancer, my father is at risk and my aunt died from bone cancer," Ms Kasparian said.
"A close friend of mine battled aggressive cervical cancer and survived it.
"I have also had scares in the past for breast cancer, being a mother of two young children.
"It's a scary thought to not watch them grow up."
To donate to Lena Kasparian's cause: tinyurl.com/as4l3be.