READY FOR THE CATWALK: Centenarian John Coffey, pictured with models and committee members from the Killarney Branch of Kerry Hospice Foundation, helped launch the Models in Recovery Fashion Fundraiser which takes place in the INEC on September 25. Photo: Michelle Crean

By Michelle Crean

They’ve taken on an illness and beaten it – and now locals plan to use their experience and strut their stuff on the catwalk to help raise funds for local cancer services.

It’s no ordinary fashion event in the INEC on Wednesday, September 25 as brave members of the public don some of the finest in fashion for the ‘Models in Recovery Fashion Show’.

Now in its sixth year it has become a fantastic fundraiser for the Hospice Foundation locally, Cathal Walshe from the Killarney Branch of Kerry Hospice Foundation told the Killarney Advertiser.

“All 20 models female and male are in recovery from cancer of various types and will take to the catwalk for this worthy cause.”

The compere for the evening will be Noel Cunningham of TV fame. The night begins with a wine reception at 7.30pm with the added bonus of valuable door and spot prizes to be won.

“The models put in a lot of work in preparation and would appreciate the support of the public.

“It takes great courage to take part in this. It’s a serious event, one of the biggest fundraisers hospice has in the year. Last year €25,000 was raised and 1200 people came to support it.”

Tickets are priced at €15 and available from the models, from Pat Doolan, Chairperson of Killarney Hospice or participating stores and the Box Office at the INEC, he added.

“Among the valuable prizes to be won is an oversized multicoloured silk wrap by famed designer Don O'Neill on the night.”