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Special Fashion Show Supports Cancer Patients And Their Families

By Stephanie Stahl

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Supporting cancer patients and their families, beyond medical interventions with a special fashion show.

The ordeal of cancer isn't just about treatments, medicine and tests. There is also all the emotional issues for patients and their families. Sometimes you just have to have fun.

Strutting their stuff at Saks Fifth Avenue, among the professional models, are cancer patients and their families.

Dakota Fisher-Vance is only 26-years-old and has already battled two bouts of cancer. On the runway, she gets to take a break from cancer.

"It was so great to actually feel like a model and feel, you know, after so much treatment and stuff to really feel really beautiful," Dakota said.

This was the 13th annual In Fashion fundraiser, to benefit the Cancer Support Community of Greater Philadelphia. The group provides emotional and educational support to cancer patients.

"For me, I think it's one of the best things that I've done during my recovery," said Dakota. "Talking to people who get it is just a totally different experience."

Rachael Koons has stage four breast cancer. She is the mother of four children. She and the kids go to a variety of groups provided by the Cancer Support Community.

"It's a way for us to bond as a family," Rachael said.

Rachael's, 17-year-old daughter, Ariana was one of the models in the show wearing designs by Baja East.

"I always wanted to be a model," Ariana said. "So it was great to have this opportunity, and I'm just here supporting my mom and the cancer community."

I was honored to emcee the event today. The Cancer Support Community has six locations around the region. Its programs range from yoga classes, to educational lectures, and psychological services.

For more information visit http://cancersupportphiladelphia.org

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