Two women from the Black Country, in the West Midlands, arranged a catwalk fashion show at the Station Hotel, Dudley raising over £500 for Parkinson’s UK and Dementia UK.
Karen Wilcox from Lower Gornal and Alexandra Darby from Rowley Regis organised the event, showcasing a selection of well-known local designers and catwalk models along with tribute singers and a fantastic drag queen act in September.
Karen, who is a professional model and Young European Ms International Finalist and Alex, who was Miss Black Country have both raised thousands of pounds over the years for various charities, but decided to organise this special event as Karen’s dad, Alan, is living with Parkinson’s and dementia.
Karen said: “I wanted to raise money and awareness for both charities and I have also joined Parkinson’s UK as a Network Campaigner to promote awareness in the local area”.
Alex, who also sang at the event said: “They are both charities that I am very passionate about and I am over the moon that we managed to raise over £500. We had a fantastic day and so much fun was had by all”.
Gayle Kelly, Regional Fundraiser for Parkinson’s UK Birmingham and the Black Country attended the event and gave a short talk about the charity. She said: “It was such a well organised and fun event. Karen and Alex did a brilliant job and we are so incredibly grateful to them and everyone who attended and supported the day.”
Parkinson’s UK is the leading charity driving better care, treatments and quality of life for those with the condition. Its mission is to find a cure and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson's through cutting edge research, information, support and campaigning.