Courageous cancer survivor Soraya Kelly has given something back to help raise much needed funds, and profile, during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
She has donated the beautiful bespoke wedding dress, Nathan Palmer kindly designed for her to renew her wedding vows, to Cancer Research Wales.
Soraya said: “I always believe in giving something back and helping others after we have been helped ourselves. I hope that this gorgeous dress brings happiness to a beautiful bride on her wedding day whilst raising funds for this dedicated cancer charity.”
The dress is available to purchase in Pritchard and Moore in Whitchurch.
This heartfelt gesture is just another step in the mum of four’s incredible journey.
Soraya started her campaign to raise awareness of early detection, and prompt treatment of, the often deadly disease after beating breast cancer earlier this year.
The forty-eight year old only realised she had Grade 3 cancer due to her 11 year old implants pushing out a lump. Scarily, this would have been completely missed had she not had the cosmetic surgery some years earlier.
The brave Rhoose resident, who underwent a lumpectomy and weeks of gruelling daily radiotherapy, then launched the courageous campaign in a bid to highlight this issue calling out to others to come and stand alongside her in support.
After candidly sharing her story on social media, a whole host of celebrities, politicians, sports stars, companies, community groups, cancer survivors, and those who have been affected by the disease stepped up.
This includes global stars such as Gloria Hunniford, Thierry Henry, and Madness. Welsh celebrities Craig Bellamy, Joe Calzaghe and Joe Cordina. Sports teams Cardiff Blues, Barry Town Football Club, Cardiff City Football Club FiJi 7’s Rugby Team. Politicians like Vale of Glamorgan Welsh Government AM Jane Hutt, UK Government MP Alun Cairns. Charities TY Hafan, Light Up for Leslie. Companies Virgin Travel Media, St David’s Hotel, Virgin Travel.
Scores of prominent local supporters such as Giovanni Malacrino who runs the successful Cardiff restaurants, well-respected fashion designer Nathan Palmer and Style of the City Magazine.
And much to Soraya’s delight, Prince Charles has sent a very touching letter of support to her and the team!
She said: “My campaign approach has always been about inclusion of all. Cancer shows no prejudice and neither does #theglovesareon. I believe in a joined-up approach to raise awareness of early detection and treatment to achieve better outcomes for all.
She added: “I have been absolutely blown away and deeply humbled by all the support given, it is amazing. I am also incredibly proud that the advert has been driven by energetic and enthusiastic young people who have embraced the campaign from the start. “Thank you to absolutely everyone who has supported me – it is very much appreciated.”
Soraya and the team are now gearing up for the launch of the much awaited ‘theglovesareon website…..watch this space!
#theglovesareon is all about the courage to step back into the ring when life knocks you down, the strength to keep fighting through adversity, the swagger to celebrate the success you worked for , and the faith that you will make that crucial difference in our world.
Follow the #glovesareon Campaign on Facebook and also on Twitter.
Speak soon.
Mrs SVJ
Sue Vincent-Jones, writing as Mrs SVJ, is a Barry born journalist, editor, and communications specialist. She blogs about Barry – and her life in the wider world, through the eyes of a, quirky and queer, local girl done good.
As Chair of #TheGlovesAreOn Sue promotes the work of the Charity, who are passionate about making a difference for our children and young people through education. She is also both LGBTQ Lead, and Communications Advisor, for the collective.
Mrs SVJ, Barry’s Boldest Blogger, can be contacted here.