The weather cooperated, the food and drink were tasty, and the women enjoyed the camaraderie. About 50 of them met together to enjoy "Sensational Summer," a fashion show featuring summer and resort fashions from Talbots, on the grounds of River Farm, headquarters of the American Horticultural Society (AHS).
Debbie Hayes, co-chair of the National Capital Area Affiliate of the Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization, which this event benefited, thanked everybody for coming and said that the proceeds will help the 24-hour Breast Cancer HOPEline sponsored by the organization.
Katy Moss Warner, AHS President, said that she knew first-hand the benefit of having support as she too, had experienced cancer in her family. She hoped that having the event held in the gardens would be a healing force.
Warner introduced Susan Allen, wife of Senator George Allen (R-Va) as the honorary fashion show chair. Warner praised Allen's efforts in helping women's causes and said that she was delighted to have her join them for the evening.
Hayes presented Allen with a butterfly, which signifies the transition from the dark feeling one has when first diagnosed with breast cancer to the blossoming of a woman after diagnosis and treatment.
Marilyn Gingles, Marcy Kozar, Ann Mahoney, Alice Petree, and Barbara Smith, all breast cancer survivors, each modeled three different fashions from Talbotís resort line. Fran Terrell, Y-ME's office assistant, modeled as well.
Refreshments were provided by Catering by Windows, Essential Catering, Federal City Caterers, Giant Food Corporation, Larry's Cookies and Tranquil Traditions Catering.
Winners for the raffle prizes, which included a weekend in Annapolis, overnight stay in Old Town, weekend in Nemacolin Woodlands, gift baskets and more, were drawn at the end of the evening.
For more information on Y-ME, call 703-461-9595.