E.P. Woman, Sons to Walk Runway at Cancer Survivor Fashion Show

When you hear the phrase “survivor fashion show,” chances are good that you will expect an event that honors people who overcome cancer.

The "Our Heroes Annual Survivor Fashion Show" by the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation is doing exactly that. And one of the models in the show this Saturday, May 11, is an East Providence woman.

Josephina Periquito will be taking to the runway at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet in Cranston. And she will be escorted down the runway by her two sons.

Three groups of models will showcase the latest styles provided by some of Rhode Island’s premiere boutiques and clothiers: individuals diagnosed before the age of 40, individuals undergoing treatment, and family members.

Josephina’s husband keenly remembers his wife’s breast cancer diagnosis, news that one in six women in the Ocean State will hear during her lifetime.

“Josephina was diagnosed on October 17, 2005 when she was only 28,” said Manny Periquito.

“I got a job with the East Providence Water Department and two months later, my wife found out she had breast cancer,” said Perquitio. “We were very lucky to have just gotten health insurance.”

Undergoing surgery, radiation for a month every day except for weekends, in addition to exhaustive chemotherapy treatment for six months, Josephina made the difficult decision to take an eight-month hiatus from her job at a jewelry manufacturer in East Providence. 

“For a year and a half, it was really tough,” added Manny. “I told her ‘if we lose the house, it’s no big deal.’”

Through her journey with breast cancer, Josephina received support from members of both her immediate and extended family. 

“Our two boys were only 8 and 11 years old at the time and were always by her side,” said Manny. “I remember that we used to hide the hair she lost from chemo that we would find throughout the house so she wouldn’t feel bad.”

Manny’s sister, Susie, was also very supportive of her sister-in-law, accompanying Josephina to every chemotherapy appointment. 

“We stayed strong as a unit and things got better for us and we didn’t lose our home,” said Manny.

“Josephina’s family is a perfect example of what most families faced with breast cancer go through,” added Maria Gemma, executive director of the Pawtucket-based foundation. “Jordan and Justin should hold their heads up high when they escort their mother down the catwalk.”

“Breast cancer affects the entire family, as well as the whole community,” said Gemma.

Breast cancer is as much a physical disease as an emotional one, according to the breast cancer foundation. And it puts the financial well-being of families to the test as well.

In addition to the fashion show portion, this year’s event features a marketplace, entertainment, and a seated dinner.

The Periquitos initially became involved with the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation in 2005.

“A lot of people don’t know what they do,” said Manny. “Even for us, we had no clue that they offer yoga and cooking classes.”

“Josephina always tells me how supportive the foundation is and how nice it is to hear other people’s stories at their gatherings and support groups,” he added.

“They’re even doing things for husbands,” Manny said, referring to his involvement with the organization’s Men’s Group, a support and social club for husbands of survivors. 

“Our fashion show is not just a charity fundraiser,” said Gemma. “Our event celebrates the unique spirit and beauty of people faced with breast cancer and is a tribute to everyone affected.”

“We’re especially excited and honored to have Josephina and her family participate,” she said.

 Tickets are $45 each and a table of 10 is $425.00.  For more information, visit the Gemma website at www.gloriagemma.org or call 401-861-4376.

--Joseph Phommasith