IF YOU GOWhat: Bra-Vo! fashion showWhen: 2-4:30 p.m. SundayWhere: Track 29, 1400 Market St.Admission: $40Phone: 423-629-2445Website: www.facebook.com/BraVo.BCSS
Elaine Hill, a 24-year survivor of breast cancer, models in a previous Y-Me fashion show. Hill is a board member of Breast Cancer Support Services and a founder of its predecessor, Y-Me Chattanooga Chapter.Bra-Vo!, a fashion show celebrating life after breast cancer, will be held Sunday at Track 29.
This year's show continues the tradition begun in 2004 by Y-ME, the predecessor of Breast Cancer Support Services, the nonprofit organization that receives proceeds from ticket sales.
Although there are several fashion shows in Chattanooga each year, Bra-Vo! is the only one that both benefits and stars Chattanooga-area breast cancer survivors, according to organizers. More than 25 local breast cancer survivors will be models for the runway fashion show.
But the event is about more than the latest fashions, says committee chairwoman Tonya Gentry.
"We will celebrate the lives of fellow breast cancer survivors," she says. "Every model has a special story about her experience and, as she walks down the runway, her own words will be read to the audience."
The event also will feature hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar and a truffle sale full of surprises.
The mission of BCSS is to provide support services and resources to women and families living with breast cancer. The organization provides financial assistance to indigent patients while they are in active treatment; maintains a bra, wig and prosthetic bank; and also provides educational programming, resources for information, support groups and a therapy group for survivors.
Bra-Vo! tickets are $40. They may be reserved by phone, online or by sending a check with attendees' names to BCSS, 1400 McCallie Ave., Suite 110, Chattanooga, TN 37404.
Donations to BCSS are tax-deductible, and all funds are used locally.