About Surviving with Style
The Surviving with Style Fashion Show & Gala is Cancer Pathways’ annual signature event celebrating the strength and resilience of cancer survivors and the generosity of our community.
Thank you 1000 Words!
Interested in becoming a sponsor for 2025?
Please contact Events & Development Director, Debra Dawson at [email protected].
Being a Model
Surviving with Style is a joyous celebration of our models – who are all cancer survivors. In preparation for the event, models meet with Cancer Pathways’ board member and former model, Anthony Tippins, to practice walking the runway with confidence. Each model is paired with a designer to find the perfect runway attire representative of their style and treated to professional hair and make-up by Annie Fisher’s glam team from AFH Salon. As models walk in the fashion show, their individual bios are shared with the audience, composed of their family, friends and community members.
“For the first time since being diagnosed, I wore a dress that made me feel beautiful. I walked up and down a stage with confidence I hadn’t had since before cancer.”
-Former Model
Surviving with Style embodies what Cancer Pathways’ means when we say we ‘face cancer together.’ It is about gathering together to acknowledge and support each other. Many staff, volunteers, committee and board members consist of former models who, inspired by the event, continue to stay involved. As one former model shared, “Now I consider myself an ambassador of sorts. I want to go out and encourage people to attend Surviving with Style.”
“I needed the joy of being with other survivors…celebrating each other in such a positive environment.”
-Former Model
History of the Fashion Show & Gala
Surviving with Style started in 1998 and, three years later, led to Cancer Pathways opening its red doors on Capitol Hill as Gilda’s Club Seattle. Nearly 400 people attended the first show, with 20 cancer survivors walking the runway. It was a huge success and brought the community together in such a special way that we knew Surviving with Style would be something we return to year after year.
After over a quarter-century of Surviving with Style and 670 models participating, it continues to be a privilege and an honor to host this unique event.
“Surviving with Style is transformative. It’s not just a fundraiser – it’s a magical experience, too!”
-Former Model
Watch the video above to learn more about the Fashion Show and Gala’s history and impact over the years.