Courageous Service-Users Light Up the Catwalk
On 7 September, we were thrilled to host our sold-out charity fashion show in collaboration with John Lewis & Partners Reading. Eight brave service users, who have been supported by My Cancer My Choices through their cancer journeys, took to the catwalk to music of their choice, with personal meaning, and in two inspirational “looks”. They courageously pushed themselves out of their comfort zones to perform in front of over 100 friends, family and supporters of the charity. Their outfits were selected in conjunction with the personal styling team at John Lewis, and with make up provided by Laura Mercier. This inspiring event celebrated their strength and resilience, showcasing the power of community and support in their lives.
As well as giving the models an opportunity to create special memories for themselves and their families, the fashion show gave the models the chance to do something for the charity which supported them. Andrew describes the massages he received from the My Cancer My Choices volunteers as “so powerful in lifting my mood and providing a lovely place of peace after such a massive assault on my body.” Holly describes the experience as “A lifeline – the chance to have physical contact without being examined, poked or prodded was a profound comfort.”
The show was “incredibly uplifting” according to the guests. So many emotions were experienced with clapping, and cheering ringing through the store, and much dancing, tears and joy as the models strutted their stuff on the catwalk, achieving things which at times may never have seemed possible.
Claire Rhodes, CEO of the charity, said, “This was such an inspiring event – our models, who have all had a cancer diagnosis, blew us away with their bravery taking to the stage, sharing their stories and how they have benefitted from the charity’s support. They all looked incredible too! We’re so grateful to everyone who came along to the event, as this enables us to continue delivering complementary therapies to more people. And we’re hugely thankful for the wonderfully generous support from John Lewis which makes this event happen. It really was an afternoon to remember!”
This was the 4th time John Lewis & Partners Reading have hosted this sell-out event. They are proud to be supporting this fantastic local charity and great community event. They pull out all the stops to make the models feel really special, as well as helping the charity raise much needed funds.