Two years ago, Cheryl East received news that would change her life and the lives of all who knew her. That's when she found out she had breast cancer. She's been fighting for her life ever since - a fight which hasn't been easy because of her rare blood type.
The nearest facility that offers treatment to accommodate her blood type is in Texas. Since her diagnosis, East has been flying there each month.
The trips back and forth from Texas have taken a financial toll on the East family; husband Jim and their two sons James and Spencer. Vicky Medlin, a family friend, decided to coordinate a fundraiser to help send East and her family to Texas in April when she is due for another treatment.
"We came up with the idea to do a fashion show and title it Pretty in Pink to center it on Cheryl's battle against breast cancer," Medlin said.
The Pretty in Pink Fundraiser Fashion Show will be from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. March 28 at the Blue Willow Inn, Social Circle. Tickets can be purchased at Social Circle Primary School (770) 464-1411 or from Vicky Medlin (404) 889-6766. The cost is $20 for adults and $12 for children ages 4-12.
Local residents ranging from newborns to adults have volunteered to model the clothes that vendors have donated. The clothes will be for sale through open bidding with part of the proceeds going to help finance the East's trip.
Some vendors have donated entire outfits and will give all the proceeds to the fund while others have donated pieces of the outfit and will likewise give a percentage of the profits. In addition, select vendors will donate a percentage of profits from online orders through a few days after the event. There will also be live entertainment.
"If weather permits, we will hold the fashion show in the garden followed by a meal provided by the Inn inside," Medlin said. "If the weather gives us problems, we are planning on having the event while we eat dinner inside the Inn."
East was a paraprofessional at Social Circle Primary School before being diagnosed with breast cancer. All who know her speak highly of her bravery.
"Through all of this she has kept fighting and holding her head up. She has never given up even through the worst of times," Medlin said.
