As the managing director of her own company, Margaret Crichton is used to addressing a crowd.
But the 61-year-old has yet to experience anything like taking to the catwalk – which she will do next month to raise money for Friends of Anchor.
Her debut comes just months after being diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, a rare form of cancer that affects the bile duct.
She is still being treated, but is focusing on preparations for Courage on the Catwalk.
Dr Crichton, from Inverbervie, admitted her cancer diagnosis had come as a shock as she and her husband Brian had become more health conscious in recent years.
The psychologist said: “Brian and I got to the age of 50, and wanted to start really looking after ourselves, so we joined the gym and made sure we ate well and were always active.”
But last August, she started to feel sick and the following month she was told she had cholangiocarcinoma.
In October, she commenced treatment which is currently continuing.
She added: “There is no doubt the diagnosis is always at the back of my mine. I am very fortunate in that the negative side-effects of chemotherapy have been mostly minimal.
“I am typically a very positive person, and see dealing with cancer as a challenge, rather than a problem.”
Dr Crichton said she has been enjoying rehearsals with the rest of the Courage in the Catwalk ladies, and can’t wait to get glamorous on the big weekend.
She said: “You go to rehearsals and come away on a high.
“I’m enjoying growing in confidence and being surrounded by all these inspirational women.
“There is such a lot of camaraderie and we haven’t really spoken about cancer, or treatment.
“I’ve never had anyone style me or say ‘try this’ before.
“For the past 30 years I’ve worn formal work clothes to the office, so I’m hoping for a bit of glamour.
“It’s too easy to be overwhelmed by negatives, so you have to look for the little things in life that will make you smile.
“Take each day as it comes, and always look for the positives.”
