URBAN Fashion inspiring awareness and community
CANCER CAN ’ T BEAT BEAUTIFUL
In July of 2015 , Jermell Keys ’ grandmother was diagnosed with a form of breast cancer called ductal carcinoma in situ ( DCIS ). Not much later , she went into surgery , and she finished her radiation in late November . Having several years of experience in the fashion community , Keys wanted to create a fashion show to encourage his grandmother through her battle . However , she was still too weak to attend The Aesthetics of Breast Cancer Fashion Show ( ABCFS ) on January 10 , 2016 . So he chose to honor three other women who were breast cancer survivors . He originally planned the fashion show for only one year . However , one of the honoree stated to him at the end of the show , “ Thank you , Jermell . Thank you for reminding me that I am a queen .” So he decided to continue the fashion show annually .
ABCFS is now a federally recognized 509 ( a )( 2 ) nonprofit organization . Their purpose is to honor survivors who use their experience with breast cancer as motivation to advocate for and inspire others . In 2017 , for the first time , ABCFS will offer an enjoyable skill-building trip to the three honored survivors which will inspire them to continue encouraging other breast cancer survivors and their families . The trip will take place in the city of Saint Louis , October 20-22 , 2017 . All meals will be provided . The trip consists of three days , each with a unique purpose : comradship , boldness , and aesthetics . After finishing the program , honorees will receive a certificate of completion and an award recognizing their service , both of which will be presented at the end of the fashion show . ABCFS ’ s concept also brings together a variety of fashion professionals who provides the perfect bridge between local designers , models and the larger fashion community . ABCFS also raises awareness through local and national media outlets .
Breast cancer survivors of any age are welcome to apply , but anyone can nominate someone deserving of this honor . Honorees will be chosen by the selection committee .
To apply or nominate someone , visit www . abcfashionshow . org and click on the honoree tab . Then click on the application . If you are interested in making a donation , you may do so by clicking on the donate link . In addition , if you have fashion or beauty talents you would like to contribute , contact ABCFS using the information below . You can obtain more information about the show by following ABCFS on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter @ abcfashionshow .
You can also email info @ abcfashionshow . org or contact Jermell Keys at 314.761.8440 . Your support would be greatly appreciated .
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