Wokingham resident in John Lewis charity fashion show

Dalia Ismail, a 35-year-old oncology clinical researcher, wellness coach, and patient advocate, took part in the sold-out event organised by My Cancer My Choices and John Lewis & Partners Reading on September 7.

She was joined by seven other models from across Berkshire.

Ms Ismail, who has been receiving complementary therapies from My Cancer My Choices following a recent diagnosis, strutted down the catwalk to music of personal significance, wearing two inspirational outfits.

The models, all of whom have utilised the charity's services, performed in front of more than 100 friends, family, and supporters of the charity.

They had their outfits selected by the John Lewis personal styling team and their makeup done by Laura Mercier.

Ms Ismail said: "Having a service specifically for cancer patients, with complementary therapies that can help improve wellbeing and where you know the treatments are safe, is truly invaluable.

"Coming to My Cancer My Choices was something I looked forward to, I was always greeted by friendly faces and a listening ear."

My Cancer My Choices provides complementary therapies for people living with cancer across Berkshire. The charity is funded by donations and offers services including acupuncture, massage, reflexology, and mindfulness courses.

The fashion show gave the models an opportunity to give back to the charity that supported them.

Dalia Ismail (Image: Kelly Dowling)

The event was described as "incredibly uplifting" by guests, with clapping, cheering, dancing, tears, and joy as the models achieved what may have once seemed impossible.

Claire Rhodes, CEO of the charity, said: "This was such an inspiring event – our models, who have all had a cancer diagnosis, blew us away with their bravery taking to the stage, sharing their stories and how they have benefitted from the charity’s support.

"They all looked incredible too! We’re so grateful to everyone who came along to the event, as this enables us to continue delivering complementary therapies to more people.

"And we’re hugely thankful for the wonderfully generous support from John Lewis which makes this event happen. It really was an afternoon to remember."

This is the fourth time John Lewis & Partner Reading have hosted this event.

My Cancer My Choices was established in 2015 by Mandy Barter and Liz Lee, who saw a need for complementary therapies for those going through cancer.

Since then, the charity has supported more than 2,000 people with cancer, delivering more than 7,500 treatments and 65 courses across Berkshire, including acupuncture, reiki, aromatherapy, oncology massage, scar tissue massage, reflexology, art therapy, mindfulness, and yoga.

In 2023, the charity was awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.