On 2 May, the Europa Donna Malta Breast Care Support Group will be organising the fifth edition of its ‘Look Good, Feel Good’ fashion show at the Radisson Golden Sands.

This annual event will involve a mixture of professional models and breast cancer survivors strutting their stuff down the catwalk, wearing an array of different outfits and accessories.

The idea of a fashion show was dreamt up five years ago by Europa Donna Malta President Gertrude Abela who conceived the event as a way to show women that they can still look – and feel – good after breast surgery. She contacted Elaine Piccinino of the eponymous lingerie and swimwear outlet, and the rest is history.

“During the first fashion show in 2011, only a handful of our models were breast cancer survivors,” Europa Donna Malta PRO Sandy Muscat says, “But every year this number has increased. This year 11 out of 20 models are survivors.”

This event is a way to instil self-assurance and a sense of achievement after what these women have gone through.

“It gives them trust in their body and a general feel-good attitude. They are the stars of the evening, she says with a smile, “They are so lively and excited backstage. They give each other confidence and courage. Sometimes there are tears… and at the end of the evening they are all friends for life.

Richard Powell has been involved in Europa Donna Malta for the past three years. He started off by doing some fundraising for the group and has since managed to raise over €10,000 with the help of other members. He is now an honorary member of the committee.

“This event is way of giving back to the group,” says Richard, “It's also a really good way for the everyday person to support a good cause, especially if they have no connection to people who have had breast cancer. Our wish is that if we mention the name of Europa Donna Malta outside the hospital, people know about us. The message is that you don't have to have had breast cancer to support us. This is an annual event that is not just about a fashion show. It is a special event full of entertainment and fun, for a good cause.”

Tickets at €25 for the ‘Look Good, Feel Good’ fashion show on the 2nd May (which include a three-course meal, entertainment and a raffle) are still available by calling 99994666 / 21482602 or emailing [email protected]. Doors open at 7 pm.

The event is supported by Piccinino, 202 Jewellery, Mo, Mangano, Centrestage, Franks, G Class, Next, D Cub, G Salon and Janice Dunn Photography.

More information on Europa Donna Malta may be obtained from www.europadonnamalta.org.mt