RAISING A TOAST BY RAISING FUNDS
Nearly 20 years ago, I was sitting with a friend and told her "I want to help you". She chuckled and said "No offence, but you're not going to be the one who cures cancer...but you could be the one who raises money to support the ones who could!". We came up with an idea to host a fundraising fashion show. Our friends would model and I could make a collection of pink dresses representing Breast Cancer Awareness. I remember her planning "We could get local boutiques onboard, and I'll wear a different one of my wigs with every outfit I model".
The show was called Metro Masquerade, Uncover the Cure. The date of show came, but our friend fell ill from chemo. We hosted the event without her and decided we'd just have to do it again next year so she could join. Before year 2, cancer had taken over and we lost our friend. We hosted the second season of Metro Masquerade and donated the money in her honour.
It was from this event my clothing collection got noticed. I was invited to participate in my first Fashion Week Event; my collection of pink dresses and me wearing my breast cancer ribbon proudly. Two decades later, I’m still creating clothes. She lite an inspiration inside me and it’s been burning bright ever since.
This year, I was invited to participate in a runway show at Paris Fashion Week. On Saturday, October 4, 2025 I had Nova Scotian models showcase the 21 outfits from my newest collection; down the street of l'île Saint-Louis in the heart of Paris. I can't help but think 'had she never inspired me, I never would have had this experience. Nor would I have had the many adventures within the fashion community over these past twenty years.’
I owe this accomplishment to her.
For the remaining days of Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2025, working alongside QEIIs The Sunshine Room, once again I am raising funds in her honour. At the end of the month, I will purchase wigs for local breast cancer patients.
I am raising a toast to Paris by raising funds for Nay
Love you Bean, this one is for you XO
Thank you for your support
$26
Victoria Jessome
$100
Lindsay Cross
Congrats on your incredible fundraising initiative!
$104
Suzanne Boudreau
$26
Rebecca LeBlanc
$78
Dragica Idzanovic
$50
Travis MacRae
$50
Sarah Langley
You make the world a better place Love you like XO
$100
Kate Bouret
Yanni!! So incredibly proud of how you have transformed your vision over the years. You continue to inspire and shine light in this world.
$50
Freda & Kirk Brewer
Keep doing the great work.Love Mom & Dad
$50
Kayla Short
<3 So proud of everything you do!
$50
Kathleen Dooley
ik hou van jou
$25
Anonymous
🥂
$25
Amy
What a wonderful story and such a beautiful reason to raise funds, you will no doubt give those who wear these wigs the confidence some will need to step out of their homes as they navigate a tough road.
$25
Maureen Cameron
What an amazing story and way to honour your friend ❤️
$25
Angie
Giving hope and wings to both a cure and a teen’s dream is something that I sincerely hope brings you much pride. You are inspirational.
$100
Julie and Corinne
A beautiful story behind your stunning designs.
$25
Krysta King
$50
Nicole
Amazing story, and how it eventually led you to show your designs in Paris! What a way to honour the friend that lit the fire.
$100
Christelle M
Honoured to support this beautiful initiative
$100
Tanya Colbo
What a beautiful thing you are doing! ❤️
$100
Marcella Abugov
Great job JM!
$25
Anonymous
XO
