At just 32, Delilah Truck was diagnosed with breast cancer, and suddenly faced life-changing decisions about surgery, reconstruction, fertility, and treatment. “In a very short amount of time, I found out that I had to have surgery and quickly had to make decisions,” she said during a conversation with Shelley Callahan, Director of Development for the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation.
That conversation didn’t just mark the beginning of Truck’s treatment, it also sparked the creation of something much more empowering, the Power of Pink Fashion Show, happening on October 3rd at the Jefferson Hotel. The event, benefiting the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation, will bring together 14 women between the ages of 32 and 72, each walking the runway in fashion that reflects their own personality and individual journey with breast cancer.
For Truck, that self-expression was vital. “I didn’t want to wear a scarf on my head. That didn’t feel like me,” she explained. “Instead of trying to hide my baldness, I started wearing bigger jewelry around my neck, accentuating what was going on with my body instead of masking it.”
Callahan said that same spirit will define the show. “Each woman comes from a diverse background and has a different story to tell. They are the faces of breast cancer in America today, and I can’t wait for them to show off their personal styles,” she said. “It’s going to be really amazing.”
Yes it will be.
Since we’re constantly inspired by the work of Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation, we wanted to spotlight some of the models walking the runway and give voice to their stories before Power of Pink.
Jeniffer | “The thing that made the most impact on me throughout diagnosis and treatment was talking to other survivors and being supported through that community. Serving on the VBCF board and participating in the Power or Pink luncheon gives me the opportunity to pay it forward, to be there for others.”
Marylinn | “I no longer see October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Awareness is important, but action saves lives! October is Breast Cancer Action Month—a time to give, to educate, to volunteer, and to walk beside those in treatment. Change comes when we act together.”
Faith | “I look forward to walking the runway with gratitude, and standing up strong for those in the fight against breast cancer.”
Rhonda | “Embrace all of yourself, both fierce and soft.”
Valerie | “The Virginia Breast Cancer fashion show gives me the opportunity to share my journey and honor my family’s strength.” “Very excited to be part of something so empowering!”
Heather | “Its important to feel good on the inside just as much as the outside. Mental health is about being balanced in your mind, body and soul. Expressing your fashion helps you shine from the inside out.”
Jessica | “The beauty is in the attempt!”
Evelina | “Fashion isn’t just about clothes to me, its about confidence, joy and the gifts of being alive.”
Karen | “Every day is a new day, I am thankful to still be here! Cancer did not win!”
Jana | “Breast Cancer became a part of my story, but it also revealed a deeper strength and a gentler grace within me. I carry my scars as reminders of resilience, hope, and the beauty of life renewed.”
Delilah | “Every one of these women has a different story to tell. They are from diverse backgrounds, ranging from 32 years old to 72 years old. They are the faces of breast cancer in America today, and I can’t wait for them to show off their personal styles.”
Emma
More information can be found HERE.
Photos by Miranda Jean
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