More than a fashion show, Cancer Survivor Strong became an unforgettable celebration of resilience, friendship and hope as cancer survivors from across Northern Colorado walked the runway before an enthusiastic audience at Wellington Manor on Sat., July 18.
The inaugural event combined a vibrant community market, catered luncheon by Ghost Dog Deli, silent auction, local boutiques and an inspiring fashion show featuring women whose lives have been forever changed by cancer. Each model represented a story of courage, perseverance and determination, reminding guests that beauty shines brightest through strength, resilience and the unwavering support of family, friends and community.
Throughout the afternoon, there were smiles, laughter, heartfelt tears and standing ovations as family members, friends and supporters celebrated each survivor’s journey.
“Our vision was to create something that honored these incredible women while bringing our community together in support of those currently fighting cancer,” says event organizer Kristi Cannon, owner of Wellington Manor. “Seeing the room filled with encouragement, love and genuine connection was everything we hoped this event would become.”
The fashion show showcased clothing from JB Elliot of Fort Collins, Thistle of Wellington and Lilah Blue Boutique of Windsor. Old Town Hair Company partnered with the event by providing wigs that helped several models feel confident and beautiful as they walked the runway.
Guests also enjoyed a catered luncheon, signature cocktails, a silent auction and shopping with more than 20 local vendors throughout the day.
The event also raised awareness and support for Hope Lives, a Northern Colorado nonprofit dedicated to helping women undergoing active breast cancer treatment.
One of the afternoon’s most meaningful moments came as each model walked the runway while the emcee introduced her—not only sharing her cancer journey, but also highlighting her passions, family, career, hobbies and the things that make her uniquely who she is. The audience wasn’t simply meeting cancer survivors; they were meeting mothers, teachers, entrepreneurs, ranchers, grandmothers, wives, daughters, sisters and friends.
“It reminded everyone that cancer may become part of someone’s story, but it never defines who they are,” Cannon says.
The success of Cancer Survivor Strong was made possible through the incredible collaboration of local businesses, volunteers and community partners.
The event would not have been possible without the generous support of our presenting sponsors, Tabby Road Animal Hospital of Wellington and Justin Markley of Markley Motors, whose commitment to the community helped bring this vision to life. We are also grateful to Brian Graves Photography for beautifully capturing the emotion, joy and unforgettable moments of the day through his outstanding photography.
Additional thanks go to the dedicated committee members, volunteer servers from Wellington Middle-High School, talented hair and makeup artists, participating boutiques, vendors, Old Town Hair Company, Hope Lives and the many volunteers who generously gave their time and talents to make the day such an overwhelming success.
Following the incredible response from attendees, organizers hope Cancer Survivor Strong will become an annual Northern Colorado tradition—one that continues to celebrate survivors, inspire hope, support local businesses and raise awareness for those still fighting cancer.
“This day proved what can happen when a community comes together,” Cannon says. “We left inspired not because of the clothing or the decorations, but because of the remarkable women who reminded us all what courage, hope and resilience truly look like.”
Event Highlights
- Inspiring fashion show featuring courageous Northern Colorado cancer survivors
- Community market with more than 20 local vendors
- Fashions provided by JB Elliot, Thistle and Lilah Blue Boutique
- Wigs provided by Old Town Hair Company
- Catered luncheon by Ghost Dog Deli, signature cocktails and silent auction
- Support for Hope Lives, a nonprofit serving women undergoing active breast cancer treatment
- Volunteer support from Wellington Middle-High School students
- Hair and makeup services donated by local professionals
- Photography by Brian Graves Photography
- Generous sponsorship by Tabby Road Animal Hospital and Justin Markley of Markley Motors
Cancer Survivor Strong is more than a fashion show—it is a celebration of courage, community and the extraordinary strength found in every survivor’s story.
