A woman from Caythorpe is set to sparkle on the London catwalk in aid of a breast cancer charity after being diagnosed with the disease in 2011.
Susan Stannard, 60, will take part in the fashion show on October 2 at Breast Cancer Care’s annual fashion show at Grosvenor House Hotel alongside 23 other men and women who are out to prove it is possible to regain your confidence and look glamorous after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
Susan said: “Chemotherapy and surgery can do huge damage to a woman’s self-image and confidence, and Breast Cancer Care understands this better than anyone. Taking part in their fashion show this year is going to be such an amazing experience, and of course I would not have had the opportunity to do so but for having had breast cancer. Strange as this may sound, that horrible diagnosis has resulted in a very enriching two to three years of my life.”
The star-studded event will be split into two with Denise Lewis hosting the evening show and Edith Bowman the afternoon show.
The models will wear a range of designer clothing from fashion names such as Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney and Vivienne Westwood as well as high street outfits.
Susan has also got together a number of auction lots and prizes which amount to £20,000. These include a holiday in South Africa and auction lots donated by local businesses. She has also donated a piece of her own jewellery to add “something personal”.
Susan said: “Stepping on to the catwalk in front of everyone, including family and friends who were so supportive when I needed them will be a chance to demonstrate that I am still here and in good shape for the future. My life changed so much when I was on treatment that at times I felt quite isolated and this was hard to deal with, but now seems far in the past. Being involved in the show has been an opportunity to meet some amazing people and learn about their experiences and I am very grateful to Breast Cancer Care for this.”
To books tickets and support Susan on the catwalk call 0845 092 0806 or email theshow@breastcancercare.org.uk Tickets cost from £72 to £188 and details can be found at www.breastcancercare.org.uk/theshow
If you are not attending the show but want to sponsor Susan visit her JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/model-sue You can also contribute by texting SUES60 £5 (or any other amount) to 70070.