Teens organize fashion
show to raise ovarian cancer awareness
The Ritter sisters conceived the fashion show idea last
year because they wanted a way to support Carrier, an
ovarian cancer survivor. The Ritters are members of
the Sandburg student council, which helped sponsor of
this year's event.
"It's so exciting and worthwhile to see young people
working for this cause," Carrier said.
More people need to be aware that ovarian cancer is
not just a disease that strikes elderly women, she said.
The event also promotes the Teens for Teal, a program
that targets young women. The color teal is the national
symbol for ovarian cancer.
Holly Jensen, president of the coalition, said the Illinois
division's Teens for Teal program is the first such
group in the nation and got its start at Sandburg's
2005 fashion fundraiser.
"Ovarian cancer is striking younger and younger
women and we need to get the word out to more college-age
students," Jensen said.
"The fact that we're returning and (the style show)
was so successful last year is exciting."
As part of the event, guests not only viewed spring
and prom fashions from area stores and boutiques, they
learned more about the coalition from speakers Jessica
Ritter, Carrier and Jensen.
Sandburg students, coalition members and other community
residents modeled the clothing. After the show, a reception
was held in the auditorium lobby.
Among retailers presenting fashions were Kimberly Bond
Boutique, Talbots, Charlotte Russe, Cleo Boutique, Eva's
Bridal, Coldwater Creek, Rampage and That Girl Boutique.
Fred Peronto, assistant advisor to the student council,
said he likes to see students taking up a cause.
"One of the things we do with the council is to
try and get them involved in the community," Peronto
said.
For LuAnn Anderson, the group's Illinois division coordinator,
the event was "near and dear" to her heart.
Anderson, who has worked with the coalition for more
than two years, got involved after a close friend died
from ovarian cancer.
"We're so grateful for all the people who came
out today as well as the students and their families,"
Anderson said.
For more information, call (630) 769-1664 or go to
www.ovarian.org.
Eloise Marie Valadez may be reached at evaladez@dailysouthtown.com
or (708) 633-5974.
