Alison Duncan, HB Breast Cancer Trust, Hastings. News.
Alison Duncan, HB Breast Cancer Trust, Hastings. News.
Ladies walked away with designer threads and a clear conscience knowing their money went to a worthy cause. The inaugural Underwire event offered labelled clothing for a fraction of the price, with all funds going to Hawke's Bay's Breast Cancer Trust [HBBCT]. There was a brunch, catwalk fashion show and silent auctionfollowed by the chance to buy up large at Iona College last weekend. It was the brainchild of terminally-ill woman Gayleene Kepka and friend Claire Vogtherr, whose shared love of clothing and passion for raising awareness made for the perfect combination. Ms Vogtherr said there was an amazing turn out with just under $8000 raised. "Everybody was keen to take part in what's going on, we made a lot of money and it's was pulled together so quickly, if there was a next time I'm sure we could do even better," she said. Donated clothing ranged from high end Kiwi labels to designer sunglasses by Gucci and Dior - many of the silent auction items were donated by Ms Kepka herself. Any leftovers were given a second chance at Roundabout preloved boutique for breast cancer in Ahuriri. Hawke's Bay Breast Cancer Trust chairperson Alison Duncan believes any event raising money and awareness for the cause is, "so important". It's yet to be determined how the sizeable donation will be spent but there are many different avenues to consider, including extra support groups for people with breast cancer or lymphedema. Research into Hawke's Bay's high instance of breast cancer or funding for vital diagnostic and treatment equipment were other options. "We need to fully scope out all those needs before we apply the funding but we will do that in the next few weeks and certainly we will be keeping the donors informed," Ms Duncan said. ?For more information about the charity visit: hbbct.org.nz
