Inspirational Isabel

Friday 5th October 2007

Woman&Home reader, Isabel Taylor looked every inch the catwalk model as she wowed the crowd at Breast Cancer Care's annual Fashion Show. GP, Isabel was chosen by the w&h team as the winner of our competition to become a model at the event.

Our Editorial Director, Sue said:
"Isabel really stood out because she's such an amazing example of everything that woman&home stands for. She's completely inspirational, with a strong and courageous attitude. Despite everything she's been through, she has always focused on enjoying life and remaining positive for herself and her family."

"She was absolutely fabulous on the catwalk, and looked utterly gorgeous. We're so proud of her and reckon if she ever wants to give up her day job as a GP, she'll have a terrific career ahead of her as a model!"

Isabel said:
"It was wonderful to meet all the other women and men and hear their brave and truly inspiring stories. The whole day was incredibly emotionally charged and hearing the cheers from the crowd was so amazing.

My partner and daughters were there, with two of my closest friends who have supported me through breast cancer. My 86 year old father travelled down from Manchester which was really special. He underwent radical throat surgery at 83 for cancer. He is my hero.

I had two lumpectomies and three operations, but I'm doing well now. I'm on Tamoxifen, and I recently had an MRI and got the all-clear. I feel so lucky to have come out the other side of breast cancer and I've made so many good friends through Breast Cancer Care."

Isabel was stunned when the guests got to their feet to show their support to all of the models on the runway. She, along with the 22 other models, demonstrated that that it is possible to regain your confidence and look fantastic after a diagnosis of breast cancer.

Isabel's positivity was evident in her competition entry. She wrote: "I never think of myself as having cancer or dwell on the future. Surviving has reminded me of the joy of life, the pleasure of spending time with my children."

The Breast Cancer Care Fashion Show was hosted by Fiona Phillips in the afternoon, and Lisa Snowdon in the evening. A number of celebrities attended including, David Walliams, Geri Halliwell, Cherie Booth, Claire Sweeney, Lorraine Chase and Meera Syal. Over £500,000 has been raised so far and they're still counting...!

Don't forget to check out our gallery of the fashion show.

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