Fannin County cancer survivors will be walking the runway in the 3rd Annual Survivors in Fashion fashion show fundraiser for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life program, November 16, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Blairsville Civic Center. The civic center is located at 165 Wellborn St.
Board member Diane Shillcutt said the fashion show is where local cancer survivors walk the runway. Tickets cost $10 and can be purchased in advance or at the door. In addition to the fashion show, the evening will include a 50/50 raffle, door prizes and a dinner. Patrons will be offered a meal of chicken strips, mashed potatoes, green beans, slaw, rolls, tea or water, and dessert.
One Fannin County model and cancer survivor, Stephanie Schulman, said she’s excited for the show. “I’m excited. I’ve never done anything like this before. I think it’ll be fun,” she said.
Schulman was diagnosed with uterine cancer, had surgery this past Valentine’s Day and endured 18 rounds of chemotherapy. Her journey, she said, taught her it was okay to ask for help and to accept help. She said, “Friends came out of the woodwork to help and support me.” As far as advice goes, Schulman said, “If you notice something different in your body, don’t wait, don’t be afraid to go to the doctor.” By walking in the fashion show, she hopes to give hope to others who may be battling the disease.
Shillcutt said, “All of the models are cancer survivors. This is a time to recognize, honor and celebrate them.” She said the first fashion show raised $1,926 while the second show raised $4,535. “We hope to raise more this year. All monies raised go to the Relay for Life, American Cancer Society, for those affected by this devastating disease that has taken too much from too many. My prayer is one day the words ‘You Have Cancer’ will never have to be heard again,” Shillcutt said.
Union County Relay For Life board members, made of Allyson McGraw, Barbara Richardson, Betty Woods, Gail Smith, Mary Ann Lockaby, Mia Crowe, Paula Pendleton, Sharon Penner, Sue Upchurch, Vee Lafoon, Wendy Holden and Shillcutt, “organize it and work hard to get food donated, door prizes, models, entertainment and decorations that make it very successful,” according to Shillcutt.
The clothes and fashions are provided by Sharon’s Fashions and Alexander’s. Shillcutt said, “We have many sponsors for this event, some of which are Chick-fil-A, Alexander’s, Sharon’s Fashion and Budget Blinds. We thank them so much for their support.”
Order tickets by calling Mia at 706-897-4519 and learn more by emailing Diane Shillcutt at eshillcutt@yahoo.com.