Opinion

Chai clients and generous supporters wowed the 250 guests as they sashayed down the catwalk at ‘Strictly Chai Fashion with Averyl’ at Kinloss last Tuesday. This was the first in-person event for more than two and a half years and the energy and excitement in the room was palpable.

The fabulous show, expertly choreographed by Averyl, showcased Autumn/ Winter ’22/’23 and raised more than £90,000. The collection included designers; Valentino, MaxMara, Diane von Furstenburg, Riani, Luisa Cerano, D.Exterior and many more.

After lunch, guests had a chance to hear from Chai client and Porto & Bello founder, Alexia Baron who spoke about how Chai helped her and her family through her cancer journey. Alexia said: “In March 2020, 29 years old and 34 weeks pregnant with my second child I was diagnosed with breast cancer. 5 days later the UK went into lockdown. My world was turned upside down and I was left in the dark. Not only was the world going through such a difficult and scary time, but my family and I were going through our own very scary battle ourselves. I can’t say I remember too much about the days around my diagnosis. All I can remember was feeling overwhelmed. My husband picked up the phone and called Chai.

Whilst the world was closing down, Chai stayed open. Not physically, but emotionally for all of us going through cancer. Because not even Covid was going to stop cancer. We spoke to a couples’ counsellor and since that phone call, my husband and I still speak to

Alexia Baron PHOTO: CHIKO PHOTOGRAPHY our counsellor on a weekly basis. I cannot begin to explain the gratitude we have in our lives for this person. Sitting for hours and hours on end having weekly treatment I didn’t understand why so many patients were sitting half exposed. When you start having chemotherapy, you are offered to have a port put in or a PICC line to help administer the drugs. While my port became my best friend, I even named it - It’s awkwardly placed on your body. I created Porto and Bello, named after my port - an accessible clothing brand that allows cancer patients going through medical treatment to feel comfortable.” Guest speaker was award winning businesswoman and Apprentice interviewer, Linda Plant who had the room spellbound listening to her fascinating life story. Her can-do attitude to find the positive in every situation was a great message for all those present. HALF PAGE ADVERT JAN 2020:Layout 1 09/01/2020 16:04 Page 1 A British Emunah supporter has raised over £5,000 by running 70 miles for her 70th birthday.

Jean Shindler of Finchley is a member of New North London Synagogue and undertook the Jean (centre) with her family fundraiser in memory of her sister, Anna Finchas, who was 60. She said: “Anna was a great supporter of Emunah and participated in all the sponsored treks that were arranged around the UK. Our father wanted to create a project in her memory.”

The Anna Finchas Art Therapy Centre was opened at Emunah children’s home in Afula, Israel following her passing. “This was particularly appropriate as Anna herself had been an artist,” said Jean. “Visiting the home on a number of occasions, and meeting many of the students, I saw for myself the wonderful work that Emunah does in supporting at-risk and vulnerable children and families in Israel.”

Jean used her ‘Couch to 5k’ app to run 70 miles and raise money for the art therapy centre. She said, “I am supporting a remarkable charity but also feel my darling sister is with me in celebrating a landmark birthday.” Donations: www.emunah.org.uk/donate/ jean-shindler-70-miles-for-70-years

Norwood opens 60K kitchen

A milk and meat kitchen at Norwood’s shortstay Buckets & Spades children services has opened following a £60,000 donation .

The on-site kitchen facilities are crucial to facilitating good nutrition and dietary habits.

A plaque honoured the donation by Malcom Carter and Susie Segal, Trustees of the Locker Foundation, in memory of their father, philanthropist Irving Carter.

Good nutrition and hydration is a significant part of care and support provided at Norwood.

Support staff can offer nutritious meals for children and young people with multiple, complex and sometimes profound disabilities to reduce risks of additional health issues.

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