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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