Courage laid bare, women make a date to help charity

PALS WHO HAVE HAD CANCER STRIP OFF FOR A CALENDAR TO RAISE MONEY FOR MAGGIE’S WHICH OFFERS HELP AND SUPPORT AFTER A DIAGNOSIS

A GROUP of women took to the catwalk earlier this year in a powerful show of girl power, unity and strength.

Each of the women had been affected by cancer and one thing they all had in common was that they all had suffered devastating side-effects of the gruelling treatment.

Some had also undergone radical surgery such as mastectomies and some had undergone other major surgery.

The catwalk was part of the spectacular ‘Maggie’s on the Runway’ fashion show held at the Runway visitor centre at Manchester Airport, and raised more than £200k for Maggie’s Manchester – a service providing free practical and emotional support for people with cancer.

And having fallen back in love with their bodies, some of them got together at the Foundry Studios in Salford – this time taking all their clothes off to produce a tasteful calendar to further support Maggie’s.

Their ‘in the buff’ moment was captured by Manchester photographer, Pip Rustage, whose creative talents are renowned far and wide.

Pip was delighted to work with the models on such an inspirational project.

She said: “I was introduced to Maggie’s Manchester via their phenomenal fundraising fashion show under Concorde at Manchester Airport.

“It was such an emotional day, the women were so brave. I was gushing and unbelievably proud of my friends for taking part.

“I cried from the moment the show started. I really wanted to help out in any way I could so when I was asked to shoot the 2019 calendar it was a big yes from me.

“Working with all these amazing women and men shooting this calendar was an absolute riot.

“The giggles, belly laughter (and a few tears) made me realise how much these lovely people have gone through and are still going through.

“Everyone was really willing and up for it with such group solidarity and support, a type of support I haven’t experienced before.

“I’m in awe of my fantastic new friends and I’m so happy to be able to support and contribute to the family vibe Maggie’s Manchester has brought together, ” she said.

Naked Strength is available now via the website maggiesontherunway.com or from the Maggie’s Centre in Manchester, next to the Christie Hospital.