We will also be having a number of Boston based bloggers and Photographers covering the event, including:

Papercut Magazine
L’elite Magazine
Lets Talk Magazine
Sparkxx Magazine
The Boston Globe
Light Filers Pro (Raj)
Dimonika Studios (Dimonika and Hiawatha Bray)
Closet Vanity
Joshua Peters
Rewan Al Haddad
Eugenie Inniss

Bryan Finocchio: Artistic Director

Bryan Finocchio graduated from The University of Massachusetts Boston in 2011 with his BS in Nursing.  Aside from nursing, he has always had a passion for the arts, both visual and performing.  Putting together a charity fashion event gave him the best of both worlds. He founded Catwalk for a Cure in April of 2010 when his womens health professor was diagnosed with breast cancer.  He also has family members and friends who were diagnosed as well, and decided that this would be a new and unique way to give back.   Bryan never imagined the success that Catwalk for a Cure has had and will continue to have. He plans to produce many more events in the future along with his incredible and dedicated team.

Neira Pekmez: Event Coordinator

Neira Pekmez graduated with a Bachelors of Science degree in Fashion Merchandising.  Apart from fashion, she is also interested in marketing, public relations, and event planning!  She has worked as a lingerie stylist for many breast cancer survivors and is incredibly honored to be a part of such a great cause.

Christina Ruggeri: Model & Designer Coordinator

Christina has known Bryan since the 7th grade. When he asked her to help with “Catwalk for a Cure” last year, she said, “Absolutely!”.
She is fortunate enough not to have had anyone in her immediate family suffer from Breast Cancer, but she has known and knows many women and families that have been affected by this disease. ”Being a young lady myself, with many female family members and friends, I was incredibly willing to help with this charity event. Any contribution to help eradicate this disease is definitely worth my time and effort.” Christina is a 2009 graduate from Boston University with a degree in Health Science/Human Physiology. She is currently finishing prerequisite courses in order to apply for Doctorate of Physical Therapy programs.

Iliana Galvez: Asst. Event Coordinator

Iliana Galvez is a 2011 graduate from Bay State College with a Bachelors of Science degree in Fashion Merchandising.  Iliana enjoys assisting in events, marketing, and the business aspect of fashion.  Being part of this event is special because it led me to an amazing cause and hopefully change the lives of many.

Nick Mandella: Lead Photographer & Press Liaison

Nick Mandella is a freelance photographer specializing in head-shots/portraiture and event photography. He is a graduate of Suffolk University with a Bachelors Degree in Journalism and Communication. He was a photographer for Catwalk for a Cure in 2010 and has since been asked on to the board as a Photographer and Press Liaison.  He is honored to volunteer his time for this great event raising awareness and funding for such an important cause. His heart goes out to all who have been affected by the disease.  Nick would like to extend a great debt of gratitude to Bryan Finocchio for allowing him to be a part of his elegant vision.

Let us just say how thankful we are that Ludacris’ new headphone line, SOUL by Ludacris, will be in each gift bag for our event (retail value….$100).  I would like to thank (I know so many people to thank) Bob Bonefant CEO of Signeo USA for providing us with these amazing “swag bag” items.

Music should move you… make you feel something. It’s about expression and passion.
If you’re getting a proper musical experience, you can feel it in your soul.

- Chris “Ludacris” Bridges

SOUL is sold in many stores and locations, such as, Best Buy, Apple, Target, and Brookstone!

Years of research by several of the audio industry’s most prestigious engineers bring you a professional line of personal audio tools that masterfully balance elements such as world-class noise cancellation technology with superior sound quality, allowing you to experience the full range of your music. Pair that with an award winning design team and the expressive vision of world renowned artist Ludacris, and you get the first headphone that effectively merges style with professional acoustics.

For more information on the SOUL by Ludacris headphones, check it out here!

Make sure to attend the event to grab yourself a pair and to have the opportunity to take pictures in front of their step and repeat!

 Take a look at the business logos whose items will be in our 2011 Catwalk for a Cure gift bags!  I guess you will have to wait in see what the items will actually be  This may not be all of them…could have some last minute donors!

Catwalk for a Cure tickets

Thank you everyone!

]]> http://catwalkforacure.wordpress.com/2011/09/18/take-a-look-at-the-businesses-who-have-contributed-to-this-years-catwalk-for-a-cure-gift-bags-this-may-not-be-all/feed/ 0 _DSC0072 catwalkforacure Soul-Logo-black-425x400 lg_vitaminwater_zero_logo RKP Logo for Email Signature It-Works-Logo pinkberry1 vapur_logo_cyan-01 image002 Motives Logo stacked logo chobani_with_greeklogo_wtag_far131 PopCornersV2 honest_tea_NGIR logo_Stuff berryLogo zico-logo http://catwalkforacure.wordpress.com/2011/09/08/survivor-of-the-week-kelley-tuthill-award-winning-anchor-and-member-of-channel-5-news/ http://catwalkforacure.wordpress.com/2011/09/08/survivor-of-the-week-kelley-tuthill-award-winning-anchor-and-member-of-channel-5-news/#comments Thu, 08 Sep 2011 16:57:30 +0000 catwalkforacure http://catwalkforacure.wordpress.com/?p=349 Read more]]> Here is a look at, Kelley Tuthill,  Award-Winning Reporter and member of Team 5 Investigates for Channel 5 news, and is walking down the runway at this years Catwalk for a Cure event!

Kelley Tuthill is an award-winning reporter and member of Team 5 Investigates, WCVB-TV’s enterprising and in-depth reporting unit. Tuthill joined NewsCenter 5 in 1998 as a general assignment reporter.

A breast cancer survivor, Tuthill poignantly shared her journey from diagnosis to recovery with Channel 5 viewers and on-line users. The cameras followed her from diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation and life after cancer. Tuthill’s frank, personal diary on the station’s website, www.TheBostonChannel.com, has received more than one million page views since its launch in January 2007. She is also the co-author of “You Can Do This! Surviving Breast Cancer Without Losing Your Sanity or Your Style.”

When were you first diagnosed with breast cancer? How did it make you feel?

I was first diagnosed in 2006.  I was 36 years old. I was devastated. I thought I was going to die. My thoughts were on my six month old baby and 2 year old girl. All I could think about was that I would abandon them. Very dark time. I felt very scared and hopeless and SCARED. I couldn’t sleep that night at all I also felt MAD as well.

Where did you receive treatment?  Who was your doctor? What kind of treatment?

Both Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Dana Farber. Dr. Susan Troyan did the surgery and Dr. Ann Partridge was my oncologist. My care was incredible. I’m so grateful to them and the dozens of other providers who saved my life and treated me with such compassion.

How did you cope with the breast cancer diagnosis? 

I leaned on my husband and our extensive network of family and friends. People were so amazing to both of us. Family and friends made us meals and helped care for our children. So many special people came with me to my numerous chemotherapy sessions and helped pass the time with fun conversation instead of sadness.

How did you cope with the treatment side effects?  Pharmacological and/or non-pharmacological? Herbal remedies?  Spirituality?

 I used the Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies at Dana Farber. It was amazing. I found acupuncture and reiki had such a calming effect. They helped with nausea and fatigue as well. I also did yoga and exercised regularly.

Are there any events or charities you take part in?

Shortly after my diagnosis my friends founded Kelley for Ellie. It’s an annual fashion show involving the women of NewsCenter 5. We have raised more than $300,000 in five years for the Ellie Fund. That’s a Needham charity that supports women and their families during treatment. I also raise money for the hospitals that cared for me. As well as the amazing Breast Cancer Research Foundation and Komen for a Cure.

What advice could you give to women/men who have recently been diagnosed or are currently receiving treatment?

Stay away from the Internet. You are an individual not a statistic. And take it one day at a time. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when they tell you you need a year or more of treatment. Lean on family and friends and face each challenge as it comes. SURVIVOR!!!  

For more information on Kelley Tuthill and her fight against breast cancer, please visit her Diary page!  http://www.thebostonchannel.com/health/10869647/detail.html

Located in Jamaica Plain, MA, The Faulkner Breast Centre is made up of a highly recommended and dedicated team lead by breast surgeon and Medical Director Dr. Margaret Duggan.

I have had the pleasure of working with a few of the surgeons at Faulkner Hospital and could honestly say that they were the nicest most hard working surgeons.  Working in the Pre-op area, I had the opportunity to listen to how they spoke with their patients.  Having surgery is bad enough, and now these women and men have to deal with a cancer diagnosis?  Each patient had 100% trust and confidence in their surgeon and each surgeon truly loved their patient.  The bond that I saw between them was as if they have been friends for years.

Faulkner Hospital expanded its pioneering, woman-centered services with the opening of the FAULKNER BREAST CENTRE in 1988.  Since that time, the Faulkner Breast Centre has earned an outstanding reputation for exceptional care of women with breast cancer by providing the most up-to-date, comprehensive breast care, including active clinical research, high-quality treatment and patient education.

When breast surgery and other treatments are necessary, the Faulkner Breast Centre’s treatment team works together to respond to patients and their families.  This clinical team of experts from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Faulkner Hospital helps guide patients every step of the way through their cancer diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care.  By providing state-of-the-art diagnostics, researched based treatment and caring, competent staff you can be sure you’re receiving the very best in breast care when you come to the Faulkner Hospital.

Faulkner Breast Centre, Inc
Belkin House 3^rd Floor
1153 Centre Street
Boston,MA02130
617-983-7777

Sample food from Island Creek Oyster and Eastern Standard while sipping on Four Sisters wine and a signature cocktail created by Bulldog Gin!

Fashion show will feature designs by:

 Julie Kontos, Drea Couture, and Candice Wu.

Make sure to RSVP on our Eventbrite page!

http://catwalkpersona.eventbrite.com

I have been a registered nurse for about 30 years or so.  I have a B.A. In Child Growth and Development, and minor in Communication from Stonehill College.  I have a B.S.N. in Nursing science from R.I.C.  and have done some post-graduate work as well.  I love education and have always felt that knowledge is power. My longest area of practice has been in CCU and telemetry. For the last 4 years or so I have had one of the best jobs in the land. I work at Faulkner Hospital in the Center for Peri-Operative Evaluation. The job is complicated, diverse and allows for autonomy and use of a multiple of interpersonal skills.  Besides, I get to work with a great group of professionals (nurses, anesthesiologist and surgeons).  In October, I had the privilege of going on a Urology Medical Mission Project to Valladolid, an indigent area in the Yucatan, with some of the wonderful people that I have described above. I am very excited to have this experience and adventure to look forward to!

I have been married 22 years to David Milowe. David is a wealth manager/ financial advisor for RBC Wealth Management. He is Sr. V.P./Director of the Wellesley Office.  He is equally as passionate and in love with his career of choice.  David supports me in everything i do, and that is not an easy job.  So far he is great at it!!  We have 2 daughters.  Adrienne is 20 and jacqueline is 17.  They are as beautiful as they are lovely, and they challenge me on a daily basis.  I could not have picked better!!

When were you first diagnosed with breast cancer? How did it make you feel?

I was first diagnosed with breast cancer in February of  2010. I awoke in the middle of the night as if I had been held under water for 5 minutes. At the time, I had been sleeping on my stomach with my arms criss-crossed in front of my chest with my hands under the opposite arm pit ( it was cold I imagine).  I woke up my husband and said ” I have breast cancer “.  He was pretty much thinking I was having a bad dream, which I’d been known to do since my kidney cancer/ radical nephrectomy  in  2006.  I called my PCP, saw her , and was examined.  She declared it was a cyst and that I could , if I wanted to, get an ultrasound.  At that time my family was getting ready to leave for vacation to Mexico, so I swiftly and temporarily was distracted.

While away I kept having premonitions…you have breast cancer is what the little voice kept saying!  I’m grateful to have the gift of the voice, however why does it not tell me the winning lottery ticket numbers I have often wondered!!   After my vacation I was troubled and  I mentioned it to a co-worker (Phyllis Garr).  She propelled me forward, stopping at nothing, she made phone calls and demanded that the breast center see a fellow nurse and warrior immediately!!  And that is where I spent my lunch break that day.   Again, initially I was told after my mammogram that it was likely a cyst by the radiologist, after all I was just there for a mammogram 3 1/2 months earlier, which was o.k..   She said we can do an ultrasound if you would like but it appears to be a cyst. I wanted an ultrasound like another hole in my head but I still felt I was right. After the ultrasound I felt kind of panicked, maybe it was because I didn’t eat  (low blood sugar)  or maybe it was because I knew, in an unexplainable way that I was about to have my life changed again , forever.  The radiologist offered to extract the cyst, and of course I said…I’m not leaving until you do just that and send it off for a biopsy.  She was a little annoyed, and I, a little embarrassed at my insistence when 2 doctors had already told me it was a cyst. I was on the table visible shaking and starting to hyperventilate, tears rolling down my face as I prepared for this procedure. I knew that it was only a matter of minutes and I would have my answer. The longest needle I ever saw went in, and in minutes I heard….OMG, I can’t get any fluid out of here!  This is NOT a cyst, this is solid!  I can’t believe this and  I’m SO sorry she said. There was no looking me in the eyes after that.   I wailed like a baby. I was pissed off at the world!!

Where did you receive treatment?  Who was your doctor? What kind of treatment?

I received treatment at the Faulkner Hospital. Dr. Margaret Lawler was my surgeon. She was terrific. I took the opportunity to learn all I could very quickly about breast cancer and she assisted with that and respected me for my knowledge. Now the shoe was on the other foot, sort of speak, because I usually took care of her breast cancer patients, and now I was one!

Chemotherapy was done on the fifth floor at Faulkner Hospital , which was run by the Dana Farber. Dr. Dan Morgenstern was at the helm!

Radiation was done at Dana Farber in Boston as well. A great, great group of people. I took the shuttle over every day for 6.5 weeks before work with my co-workers’ husband.  I looked forward to seeing him, we would chat and he made it fun! I made lots of friends and ended up holding discussion on many an occasion. I got people talking. It helped them, but what they didn’t know was that they helped me more!

How did you cope with the breast cancer diagnosis? 

My family at home (immediate and extended), and my peers at work were amazing to me. My friends, what can I say.. were so great. My rabbi  and temple family too. I coped by getting in to shape. I was jogging a bit, walking and biking a lot. I knew I had to get into great shape for the fight ahead. I also spent lots of time by- the-sea, at a house we share, on Old Silver Beach! Special times there are imbedded in my mind for the rest of time.

How did you cope with the treatment side effects?  Pharmacological and/or non-pharmacological? Herbal remedies?  Spirituality?

I tried not to let most people see how miserable it was. There were some that I let into that world, but I tried to shield my children. I leaned on some family and friends for sure. I did drugs, I smoked pot and I dragged myself out onto the deck over looking the ocean.  I prayed and I pleaded.  A lot! I counted my blessings and miracles daily!

Are there any events or charities you take part in?

I am on the board of Pink Rose Foundation, a charity that gives scholarships to children that have lost a parent to breast cancer. I am also on the board of Interfaith Action Group in Sharon. I am a member of a temple inSharon. I am taking a year off from the Boston Marathon Jimmy fund walk that I have done for the last 3 years.  Also, before chemo I sent off 11inches of my hair to locks Of Love, a group that makes wigs for children going through cancer treatment.

What advice could you give to women/men who have recently been diagnosed or are currently receiving treatment?

Hang in there, 1 day at a time, count your blessings. Positive, positive thoughts!! Fight hard, and learn as much as you can about what you have. Your own mind, is your best medicine…thoughts become reality!

Located in Brookline, MA, Longwood Plastic Surgery is made up of 3 plastic surgeons and tremendous staff to provide the utmost care possible.  

I have meet all 3 surgeons working in the pre-op area of Faulkner Hospital and can’t say one bad thing about them, but most importantly, neither can their patients.  I have spoken to people awaiting their breast reconstructions due to cancer and abdominoplasty from losing over 100 lbs and could hear the ease in their voice when they talk about their surgeon and procedure.  It can be very scary to have an operation, but the team at Longwood Plastic Surgery make sure their patients are comfortable and taken very well care of.  

Now……lets meet the team!  

Dr. Donald Morris  

Dr. Michael Tantillo  

Dr. Terri Halperin 

“Attention to individual care is the hallmark of our practice. Each patient is treated with the utmost respect and understanding. Though many patients present to us with similar problems, we strive to make each patient encounter unique and individually focused. Longwood Plastic Surgery, its staff and physicians, pride ourselves on providing individual attention to comfort and care with a strong emphasis on respect and privacy”.

Want to hear what other people have to say?  Check out their list of testimonials!

I am a 2 time breast cancer survivor from Foxboro.  I have been helping brighten peoples’ smiles as a dental hygienist for over 35 years. I have also worked as a jewelry craftsman for a Boston designer and love to create cakes, cookies and desserts in my free time.   Last year’s event was inspiring, fun, successful and so important to all survivors!  I am happy to be returning to the second Catwalk for a Cure.  Thanks Bryan!

When were you first diagnosed with breast cancer? How did it make you feel?

I was diagnosed the first time in 2000.  I was surprised and scared.  The second time was 2007.  This time I was stunned, scared, and angry.

Where did you receive treatment?  Who was your doctor? What kind of treatment?

I had radiation therapy in 2000 at Southwood Hospital under the care of Dr. V. Patel.  Dr. Patricia Kennedy performed a lumpectomy on me in 2000.  In 2007 Dr. Faina Nakhlis performed a mastectomy and Dr. Yoon Sun Chun performed my breast reconstruction.  My oncologist was Dr. Leroy Parker.  All of these excellent doctors an surgeons were at Faulkner Hospital in Jamaica Plain, MA.

How did you cope with the breast cancer diagnosis? 

I coped by thinking positively about my diagnosis and treatment.  I knew that I had early stage cancer and I was receiving the best possible treatment for my diagnosis.  My partner Krisanthi and my family as well as close friends were a huge support system.

How did you cope with the treatment side effects?  Pharmacological and/or non-pharmacological? Herbal remedies?  Spirituality?

I found acupuncture helped a lot with the fatigue from radiation.  Positive thinking and prayer helped a lot too.

Are there any events or charities you take part in?

I have walked in the October, Making Stride Against Breast Cancer several times.  I also participate in the Relay for Life event every June.

What advice could you give to women/men who have recently been diagnosed or are currently receiving treatment?

Ask questions! Get as much information as you can.  Let family and friends know what is going on and let them help you.  They feel helpless and as out of control of the situation as you do.