Annual fundraising events highlight the strength of cancer survivors in the community.
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Brave and Courage: Celebrating resilience through fashion shows in Aberdeen
This week, the vibrant city of Aberdeen will witness a remarkable display of strength and solidarity as 24 men and 24 women take to the stage at P&J Live for the annual fundraising fashion shows organized by the local cancer charity, Friends of Anchor.
Over four nights, these courageous individuals will showcase their journeys, transforming personal battles into a powerful message of hope and resilience.
The evolution of Brave and Courage
Since its inception, the Brave fashion show for men has been a beacon of hope, starting in 2017, while the women’s counterpart, Courage on the Catwalk, began even earlier in 2013.
These events have grown from humble beginnings at Aberdeen’s Beach Ballroom to a grand production that attracts over 1,000 attendees each night. The transformation reflects not only the increasing support for cancer awareness but also the profound impact these shows have on the community.
A unique club of survivors
Membership in this exclusive club is reserved for those who have faced a cancer diagnosis. Participants like Allen Shaw, a 52-year-old from Cults, share their stories of struggle and triumph. Allen, who was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2022, emphasizes the importance of community support during his journey. “It’s a thank you,” he says, acknowledging the strength of his family and friends who stood by him during his darkest moments.
Impact on the community and fundraising success
Last year alone, the Brave and Courage events raised an impressive £360,000 for Friends of Anchor, funding vital cancer research and improving patient care across the north-east. The funds raised not only support clinical care but also enhance the wellbeing of patients, making a significant difference in their lives. As Allen prepares to walk the runway, he reflects on the camaraderie among participants, stating, “We’re all different – some are in remission, some are still undergoing treatment, some are palliative – but we get each other.” This shared understanding fosters a unique bond among the models, turning the fashion show into a celebration of life and resilience.
Join the movement
As applications for next year’s Brave and Courage shows open, the community is encouraged to participate and support this noble cause. By joining these events, individuals not only contribute to a worthy cause but also become part of a larger narrative of hope and healing. The fashion shows serve as a reminder that, despite the challenges posed by cancer, there is strength in unity and resilience in the face of adversity.
