Recovery to Runway Brunch Honors Breast Cancer Advocates

Stoosh Boutique’s Recovery to Runway Brunch Celebrates Breast Cancer Advocacy and Community Support

Fashion, fellowship and a shared commitment to breast cancer awareness took center stage as the third annual Recovery to Runway Brunch was successfully staged at The Cottage at Milleridge Inn in Jericho, New York, bringing together a diverse cross-section of women and supportive men for an afternoon of celebration, inspiration and philanthropy.

Organized by Stoosh Boutique in collaboration with the Organization for International Development (OID) International, the annual fundraiser continues to use fashion as a platform to raise awareness and support initiatives aimed at improving breast cancer care, particularly in Jamaica.

Held under the mission of turning fashion into a force for good, the event seeks to transform local community support into tangible healthcare infrastructure thousands of miles away. Proceeds and support generated through the initiative contribute to the broader goal of strengthening breast cancer screening and healthcare resources in Jamaica.

Guests embraced the occasion in fabulous attire, creating a vibrant display of style and solidarity. The elegant setting featured curated décor in shades of pink, complemented by floral arrangements that reinforced the event’s breast cancer awareness theme.

Attendees were treated to an elegant four-course brunch while enjoying an afternoon of entertainment, networking and heartfelt conversations centred on survivorship, advocacy and the importance of early detection.

A mini fashion show added a stylish touch to the afternoon, showcasing a diverse selection of designs from the Long Island-based Stoosh Boutique and giving guests a glimpse of the store’s fashionable offerings for a variety of tastes and styles.

A major highlight was the recognition of this year’s honorees, Esther Smith-Jones and Dr. Sydney McCalla, whose contributions reflect the importance of personal testimony and sustained commitment to the fight against cancer.

Smith-Jones was celebrated for her inspiring journey and advocacy, using her experience to encourage and uplift others navigating their own health challenges. Expressing gratitude for the recognition, she said the award held special meaning for her and welcomed the opportunity to share her story with others.

“I thank Stoosh Boutique for recognizing me with this award and affording me this platform to let women and men know that God is still able to do, to heal and meet you where you are. I am so happy I could be here and be a blessing to speak to others who have gone through or are going through their own journey,” Smith-Jones said.

Her remarks underscored the importance of creating spaces where individuals can share their experiences, find encouragement and offer hope to others facing similar circumstances.

Also honoured was Dr. Sydney McCalla, a lifelong member and director of OID’s Jamaica Cancer Screening Project. His recognition highlighted the importance of sustained community involvement and initiatives designed to expand access to cancer screening services.

Through its partnership with OID International, Recovery to Runway continues to connect the power of community engagement with the practical needs of healthcare delivery, reinforcing the role that fundraising, advocacy and collaboration can play in advancing breast cancer awareness.

Entertainment throughout the afternoon was provided by Road International, featuring DJ Stretch and DJ Roy, whose music added to the celebratory atmosphere.

Emcee Lady Vee also earned praise for keeping the audience engaged throughout the afternoon, bringing her signature energy and style to the proceedings while helping to maintain the event’s lively and interactive atmosphere.

The brunch also provided an opportunity for vendors to showcase their products and services, allowing attendees to support small businesses while engaging with entrepreneurs and other members of the community.

Organizers also acknowledged the support of the Jamaica Tourist Board and the VM Group, whose partnership helped support the staging of the event.

Now in its third year, Recovery to Runway Brunch continues to demonstrate how fashion, personal stories and community partnerships can be brought together in support of a cause that affects women, men and families across the globe.

Beyond the runway-inspired style and elegant dining experience, the event’s central message remained clear: collective action, awareness and access to screening are essential components of the ongoing effort to improve breast cancer outcomes and support those affected by the disease. 

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