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Ladies Take to the Runway for Breast Cancer Awareness

   Written by on October 23, 2014 at 12:36 pm

The entrance to the Moton Museum took on a festive appearance last Friday, October 17th. The tall arch of pink and white balloons over the sidewalk leading up to the steps seemed to lighten the formal appearance the historic building carries. The steady stream of stylishly dressed ladies, (steady and stylish enough for a Farmville Police Officer to direct traffic for their safe crossing, mind you), that were going inside also brightened all the more an already beautiful, early fall day. Pink was the color of choice this day, and it was worn as a symbol of solidarity.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The event schedule is in high gear right now.  Organizations, nationwide, and beyond, for this month have redoubled their effort to deliver the crucial messages of awareness, early detection, and support to women everywhere. Centra Southside Hospital, deeply committed to maintaining this life-saving dialog with the women of our community, this year teamed up with historic Diamond Hill’s “Vellie’s Boutique” of Charlotte Court House, Va. to put on a very entertaining and chic Tea Party and Fashion Show for the women of Farmville. It was a winning combination. The unmistakable Asian flair that is a trademark of  Vellie’s fashions from the Diamond Hill Boutique was just one of the themes that made the show an obvious hit with the ladies in the audience. Boutique owner Vellie Hall called the show, and her upbeat persona shown through, making it all the more entertaining for everyone.

In front of a full house, the models, many of whom were Centra employees, all local residents, made the trip down the runway. Among the models were cancer survivors as well. Their walk in front of the audience seemed as much, if not more, of a victory lap. The upraised arms and beaming smile of one woman, as Vellie announced that she had won her battle with cancer, drew loud and lengthy applause from all as she celebrated the moment with everyone there.

The afternoon was not, however, all fun. This event was about awareness. There was work to be done. Before the fashion show even began, during a light brunch, those in attendance listened to the guest speaker. Taking the podium for the occasion was Centra Southside Surgical Specialist and oncologist Dr. Kirsten Huber. Dr. Huber took the opportunity to speak to the audience about the advancements that are being made in the area of breast cancer detection and treatment. She maintained, however, that the same rules will always apply; early detection is key, and an open dialog with one’s doctor is vital. Dr. Huber also stressed the open relationship that Centra Southside has with its partner, Centra Lynchburg. The affiliation between the two hospitals greatly magnifies the ability to handle cases that need more intensive care. The range of services provided can go as far as providing transportation between the two hospitals should the need arise.

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