'˜Superheroes' to take to the catwalk

The annual event is the main fundraiser for the organisation which was set up to support the many children and teens affected by cancer in the North West.

Jamie’s Journie was set up by local teen Jamie Harkin, who has battled cancer twice in his short life.

Jamie has been seriously ill since the start of this year as a result of continuing health complications arising out of the cancer.

However, he has been focusing much of his energy on organising the fashion show over recent weeks.

Mum Trisha said that every night Jamie sits down to do his Jamie’s Journie work no matter how rough a day he has had.

“His strength of character really amazes me. He is so dedicated to the kids and families that he supports. It many ways organising this event has given him renewed vigour.”

Last years superheroes fashion show was so successful, this year they have decided to ‘take it up a notch’.

The event in the City Hotel on October 1st will see 27 models grace the catwalk, and local entertainer Mickey Doherty will compere the event.

The models will include young people from the North West affected by cancer.

Each of these children will be dressed on the night by local outlets, including Bambinos in Buncrana, Pippa Boutique and #thanksjosh. They will also be pampered before the fashion show and receive a personal shopping trip after the event.

The models will also be sponsored by local businesses and so far 22 local companies have pledged their support for this.

All those attending will be treated to a champagne reception, a five course meal, special guests and entertainment.

‘It is really shaping up to be such a special night. We still need sponsors and raffle prizes but local businesses have been so supportive up to now.

This is the main fundraiser for Jamie’s Journie and it allows us to hold Easter and Christmas parties for the children, as well as other days out’.

During the event Sorcha’s Surprises will be launched which will see one lucky child and their family receive a special trip.

This prize is dedicated to the memory of local woman Sorcha Glenn who died aged 23 from cervical cancer.

Sorcha’s family have been extremely supportive of the work done by Jamie’s Journie and their efforts to get dedicated help for children in the North West throughout their cancer journey.

Trisha explains that much of the support is based in Belfast as all of children’s cancer treatment is based there.

“There are so many children in the North West affected yet we all have to travel for treatment and appointments. Jamie’s Journie allows the kids and their families to come together for much needed support.

“Jamie really has turned something negative into something positive. The fashion show gives the children a chance to show what superheroes they are and they love taking to the stage. It helps boost their confidence so much.

“Last year, we were even told how much the personal shopping trip helped the kids. One school got in contact to say how amazed they were at the effect it had on one girl, as it was the first time they had seen her so happy in a long time.”

Tickets for the fashion show are selling fast.

To get your ticket, sponsor a child for the fashion show or donate items for auction contact the Jamie’s Journie Facebook page www.facebook.com/jamiesjournie or call 07562090773.