The 24 models took part in the Keeping Abreast More Than Just Fashion Shows at the events centre at the Norfolk Showground in Norwich this week.
What differentiated these fashion shows from other events was that the models sashaying down the catwalk were all breast cancer reconstruction patients who have been supported by the Norfolk-based charity.
Keeping Abreast fashion show Marks & Spencer lingerie set (Image: Keeping Abreast) Keeping Abreast chair of trustees Emma Queensborough said: “It was an absolute privilege to see all these ladies come together with their nearest and dearest to showcase exactly what our charity is all about.”
Volunteer Claire Shearer from Mattishall, who was one of the models in the show, said: “It was an amazing experience, I’m proud of myself and to support Keeping Abreast who are still supporting me is fantastic. Being up on the stage was just amazing, the camaraderie with the girls was awe-inspiring.”
Model Kim Coates, from Norwich, was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer and had a mastectomy and immediate DIEP breast reconstruction, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
She said: “When I was waiting for my surgery, I went to my local support group, which was at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital at the time, to see other people’s types of surgery and from that I became a volunteer because it helped me so much.”
Sponsored by Norfolk Edge Catering a Events, Insurancewith and Hansells Solicitors, the fashion shows showcased the latest looks from a range of Norfolk retailers including Scarlet, Elora, Lady B Loves, John Lewis and Marks & Spencer.
Keeping Abreast’s volunteers share their experiences of breast cancer and breast reconstruction with others who are facing a similar journey. The charity has face-to-face and outreach groups in Norwich, Wymondham, Stalham, King’s Lynn and Gorleston and also offers telephone and online support.
