After five years of applications a woman from Upminster fulfilled her dream of taking part in a special fashion show to support Breast Cancer Care and raise awareness about the importance of regular health checks.
Rowan Hostler, 49, from Holden Way was one of 31 models to stride down the runway at the 2018 Fashion Show for Breast Cancer Care at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel on Thursday, October 4.
“The first time before I walked out my legs were shaking because I knew that there were hundreds of people out there,” said Rowan.
“Once you’re past the first time it’s such a fantastic feeling and you just can’t wait to get into the next outfit.
“After having done the afternoon shows, the anticipation for the evening is amazing. It’s such a great atmosphere.”
From the show alone, more than £300,000 was raised for Breast Cancer Care. Rowan has currently raised £1,700 and with a £250 donation from her work she hopes to reach her goal of £2,000.
Rowan said: “All of the models - male and female - have had breast cancer in the past or are about to start treatment.
“It was terribly tragic as one of the models died on the morning of the show. It just shows that it’s so prevalent and it doesn’t always turn out to be a happy story.
“At the same time the event is a great way of showing that people can get through a diagnosis.”
The afternoon show was presented by Claudia Winkleman and the evening show by Victoria Derbyshire. Guests enjoyed entertainment from The Overtones, Alexandra Burke and a speech by Geri Halliwell.
“It was an incredibly well organised event,” said Rowan.
“Breast Cancer Care (BCC) is a really great support service that helps people understand their prognosis, they have doctors and nurses that are available to speak to you and they provide advice with how to deal with some of the side effects.”
Rowan learnt about the fashion show after she took part in BCC’s Look Good Feel Better plan which shows women with breast cancer how to put their make-up on when they’re feeling a bit low.
“It was through this that I heard about the fashion show. After my treatment and recovery I applied to be a model in 2013,” she added.
“I applied again and again and then in 2016 I learnt that I had a place.”
Rowan was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 at the age of 42. She’d previously had two scans of a suspicious lump and had been told after the second one that her private medical would not cover her for more.
The mum-of-two knew that something wasn’t right and persisted with paying for another scan.
She said: “It’s all about knowing your body. I knew something wasn’t right and I wanted [the lump] to be checked again.
“I think that the persistence with the scans and the persistence of applying to be a model - it shows that a persistent attitude can save your life and help you achieve your dreams.”
To support Rowan visit her justgiving page.
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