By Shelley Callahan, Director of Development
The 2nd annual Richmond Power of Pink Luncheon took a different spin this year to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month by hosting a luncheon and fashion show at the Jefferson Hotel on October 3rd. Thirteen breast cancer survivors and thrivers showcased fabulous outfits of their own choosing, while sharing a personal story about their journey with breast cancer and how it related to their fashion, both in the past and currently.
VBCF welcomed back the incredible Reba Hollingsworth from CBS 6 as the event’s Emcee Extraordinaire. Reba eloquently described each of the models’ outfits and narrated their stories of struggles through diagnosis, treatment, and post-treatment journeys while also highlighting their successes and joys in life as they overcame adversity and challenges on their individual breast cancer journeys.
Additionally, VBCF had the honor of having U.S. Representative Jennifer McClellan, who represents Virginia’s 4th Congressional district, make remarks to the attendees. Rep. McClellan spoke about her leadership in Congress on issues impacting Virginians with breast cancer and thanked VBCF for its advocacy work, especially the passage of the 2025 state law that will eliminate out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging for those with state-regulated health insurance plans. McClellan emphasized that government is for the people, by the people, and encouraged everyone in attendance to speak up and communicate with their legislators about what matters most to them.
VBCF is incredibly grateful to our incredible sponsors, including our Presenting Sponsor since 2023, the Virginia Women’s Center (VWC). During the luncheon, we heard from VWC’s President, Dr. Berkle, who spoke about their invaluable work supporting women and men who are facing breast cancer. VBCF is also incredibly thankful for the support of the Virginia Cancer Institute, which has sponsored since 2023, as well as our other corporate, small business, and table sponsors, who made up a full house in the ballroom at The Jefferson Hotel for this event.
Prior to the event’s conclusion, VBCF Board President Tara Daudani enthusiastically spoke to the crowd, encouraging them to continue to get involved in the work of VBCF, by donating, advocating, and/or continuing with community action efforts to ensure that VBCF can continue to help Virginians affected by breast cancer into the future.
We are so grateful to all the models, survivors, thrivers, caregivers, and loved ones who were in the audience, and all of our sponsors and supporters who make our work possible. We are so excited to host you again on October 2, 2026, for next year’s Power of Pink Luncheon and Fashion Show in Richmond!
