A group of inspirational models took to the catwalk yesterday and highlighted their determination not to be daunted by cancer.
The special occasion, both poignant and inspirational, marked the climax of the emotional and exhilarating experience that is Courage on the Catwalk.
The fundraising event – the first of its kind in the north-east – was launched by cancer charity Friends of ANCHOR in 2013.
And, now in its fourth year, the show has gone from strength to strength in accentuating the positive aspects of battling with a traumatic illness.
The proceedings took place at Aberdeen’s Beach Ballroom and featured 24 brave women who have faced up to cancer with an indomitable spirit.
Even though the models were sad to see their time at Courage come to a close, it was clear it was the experience of a lifetime for the group.
For many of the participants, CoTC has created something positive out of what was a difficult time, and as the models left the catwalk for the final time, 20-year-old Jen Smith insisted the memories and friendships she has made will never be broken.
She said: “I can’t believe it’s over now, because the whole weekend has just been so fantastic and exciting.
“Everyone has been so fun to be with and made the experience what it was. I’ve really been made to feel like a princess with all the clothes and hair and make-up.
“I won’t ever forget this experience.
“I was so happy that I got picked to do Courage in the first place and it has been great to have something positive come from having cancer.
“It’s been such a fantastic thing to be part of and I will always remember this – it was such an experience and it has been very emotional, but only in the good ways.”
For others who walked on to centre stage, the opportunity allowed them to conquer a number of fears.
Jennifer Fowlie, 54, said: “The thing I was most nervous about was wearing heels as I’ve been in flats since I had chemotherapy.
“But after doing Courage, I definitely don’t have that fear anymore. I managed to spend the whole time in heels – how great is that?
“The event has been superb and although it was initially very nerve-racking, as soon as we all got on stage, nobody wanted to come off again.
“I think what Friends of ANCHOR have pulled off this weekend is amazing. It’s a great fundraiser, but it’s probably the message behind the show which matters – telling people where the money is going and how the research is going to help conquer cancer one day.”
For 39-year-old Kerry Rae, her appearance in Courage wasn’t only the end of a marvellous crusade, but the start of a fresh challenge.
She said: “The whole Courage experience has just been exciting and a great new challenge.
“It has been such a breath of fresh air to take part in something like this compared to some of the other stuff I have gone through in the last few years.
“I’d say that even though the shows are over and it may seem the end of a chapter, this isn’t goodbye at all, but the start of a whole new chapter for me and the other ladies.
“Courage has given me a whole new avenue in my life and a total boost in my confidence after cancer and for that I am so thankful to Friends of ANCHOR and everyone who arranged this amazing experience for some extraordinary women.”
