Breast Cancer Survivors and POHRMC Docs Rock the Runway at the 3^rd Annual Sister & Sister Luncheon and Fashion Show

Before a crowd of more than 300 guests, Sharon Hall — a two-time breast cancer survivor — modeled a beautiful white lace wedding gown by Bridal Couture of Birmingham.

Hall said the only reason she is alive today is because of a mammogram.

To benefit the POH Riley Foundation’s Free Mammogram Program, cancer survivors, POH Regional Medical Center doctors and supporters of the Foundation modeled fashions by Bridal Couture of Birmingham; Chico’s of Somerset Collection; Ariada Boutique of Birmingham; J. Barbaro Clothiers of Auburn Hills and 110 Couture of Birmingham during the 3^rd Annual Sister & Sister Luncheon and Fashion Show held in April at the Townsend Hotel in Birmingham.

Cancer survivor models included Sharon Hall, Suzy Rhadigan, Brenda Garza and Kelli Ketzler. The runway show was choreographed by Paula Tutman, WDIV Local 4 News Reporter, who also served as the Mistress of Ceremonies.

Click here for the 2009 Sister & Sister Fashion and Beauty Extravaganza photos.

Thanks to generous community sponsors and proceeds raised during the event, Teresa Rodges, Executive Director of the POH Riley Foundation, estimates more than 300 free mammograms will be provided to uninsured and underinsured women in Oakland County.

“When this program was created in 2007, our goal was to help at least 100 women receive a free mammogram,” Rodges said. “Thanks to our supporters, we have provided nearly 800 mammograms to underserved women in our community. Knowing that we are making a difference in the lives of our mothers, daughters, sisters and friends — there is no greater feeling!” 

Dr. Lewis A. Jones, Jr., Director of Breast Imaging at Ingham Regional Medical Center in Lansing, was the guest speaker.

“Mammograms are the key to early detection,” Jones said. “Nothing else comes close.”

Jones provided a PowerPoint Presentation detailing how mammograms are performed, general facts on breast health, and when women should begin receiving mammograms. This age is generally 40, unless there is a history of breast cancer.

Mona Lisa’s International Salon and Day Spa of Pontiac provided hair and makeup services free of charge for all models.

Rodges, the event organizer, utilizes the Sister & Sister Luncheon and Fashion Show to urge continuing financial support for the Free Mammogram Program.

To make a donation or to learn more about the POH Riley Foundation, contact Teresa Rodges at (248) 338-5310 or visit www.pohregional.org/foundation.