From the Water to the Runway! Breast Cancer Survivors Model in Jones New York Fashion Show September 16, 2009

Dragons Abreast members trade in their paddles for high fashion to help raise awareness for breast cancer with a night of sensational cocktails and sizzling fall fashion at the 7th Annual Jones New York and Dragons Abreast Fashion Show in support of Wellspring Cancer Support Foundation. On Wednesday, September 16, 2009, Erin Davis will return as the Master of Ceremonies for the reception and fashion show at the Arcadian Court in The Bay, Queen Street. The party begins at 6:00pm with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and will be followed by the fashion show featuring the courageous breast cancer survivors from Dragons Abreast modelling fashions from Jones New York, AK Anne Klein, Anne Klein New York and Nine West at 7:15pm. Tickets are $60 each and can be purchased through Wellspring by calling
416-961-1928.

“This fabulous show of support from Jones New York and Dragons Abreast will help Wellspring assist thousands of families coping with the diagnosis, treatment and effects of breast cancer,” states Lynda Morrison, Chief Executive Officer, Wellspring. “We encourage women from across the GTA to help us do even more by joining us on September 16th for this fun and spirited event.”

The Annual Jones New York and Dragons Abreast Fashion Show raises awareness of breast cancer and Wellspring. All proceeds go to Wellspring’s cancer support programs and services.

TWENTYFIVE MODELS FROM DRAGONS ABREAST FEATURED IN THE FASHION SHOW

At 55, Dianne Mowat has been married to her husband Robert, a Managing Editor, for 34 years and together they have two sons, Ezra, 24 and Noah, 14.

Dianne was diagnosed with breast cancer in July of 2002, when she was 48 and went through a mastectomy, chemotherapy and then radiation. She believes that her breast cancer was a wake-up call to start savouring life, to being in the moment and jumping into life full throttle.

Dianne describes Wellspring as a sanctuary that offered her great support during her chemotherapy; “While going through chemotherapy, I needed to find something physical to do, to connect me with my body that had betrayed me. Wellspring offered many programs and sessions for people dealing with cancer: from art therapy, to reflexology, to counselling. For me, the most wonderful program was the Yoga held in the Coach house; even when I was tired, weak and depressed, this lifted me and helped me deal with the pain of treatment with such a beautiful space and such kind, caring and informed instructors.”

To prepare for her final round of chemotherapy, Dianne dressed up as Wonder Woman to mark the day with a celebration. Following her mastectomy, she believed she truly embodied her hero, as Wonder Woman was from the tribe of Amazons who often cut off a breast to be a better warrior. Wonder Woman made her return when Dianne was asked to speak at the Run for the Cure. She ran the 5 k run in costume, with her son, Noah, alongside her dressed as a dark cancer fighter, complete with a cape and mask. It was at this Run for the Cure that Dianne first heard about Dragons Abreast.

“Dragons Abreast has been a wonderful window that has opened my life to a number of incredibly strong and beautiful women that I am proud to call my friends,” states Dianne. “This amazing sport has helped me become an athlete; who would imagine competing at a world level at 55 years of age!” She has paddled in the 2006 Worlds in Toronto, competed in Australia and is hoping to paddle in Macau, China for the World Club Crews in 2010.
FUN AND PRIZES GALORE

Ticket holders are eligible for a number of door prizes.

Limited edition vintage t-shirts will be on sale as well as beaded breast cancer and wellspring bracelets.

All attendees will receive a gift bag, followed by a private shopping experience and exclusive offers at the Bay Queen Street following the show.

All proceeds go to Wellspring’s cancer support programs and services. For more information visit http://www.wellspring.ca

SPECIAL THANKS

Support from their sponsors allows Dragons Abreast to spread their positive message of hope and encouragement. The team is grateful for the generosity of Jones New York, AK Anne Klein, Anne Klein New York and Nine West and Scotiabank.

Official Website: http://www.wellspring.ca