Odette De Grandis was nervous and slightly overwhelmed before she was set to take the stage on Saturday evening.
As a first-time model for the 23rd annual Bras for a Cause hosted by Soroptimist of Valencia, this was a full-circle moment for her. You see, she wasn’t just there to support the event, which is aimed at raising funds for women’s breast cancer in a fun, fashion show setting.
De Grandis was there to also embrace her survivor story with hundreds of guests present at the Hyatt Regency of Valencia that evening.
“I am a breast cancer survivor,” she said confidently.
“I was very scared. I didn’t know what to expect,” she added recalling the moment she learned of her diagnosis. Thoughts in her mind such as ‘Am I going to die?’ and ‘Am I going to make it?’ ran through her head.
“But all I knew was that I wanted to be strong for my kids,” she said. But even with a positive mindset, her cancer journey wasn’t easy. She had one of the most aggressive cancers, underwent a double mastectomy, radiation, and seven months of blood infusions and two years of chemotherapy.
But with the support of her friends and family, De Grandis managed to take it day by day, even when some of them, all she could really do was shower and get dressed.
The annual Bras for a Cause fundraiser supports women like De Grandis by raising money through uniquely designed bras that become symbols of strength, hope and survivorship.
Women, both breast cancer survivors and those who have not experienced the disease, volunteer their time to prepare for the catwalk and help further the organization’s mission.
Funds raised support the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Center at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, help provide mammograms for underinsured women and critical support services for those undergoing treatment, said Laura Chesler, the organization’s president.
Another local nonprofit that benefits from the fundraiser is Circle of Hope, which aids breast cancer patients with financial support, local support groups, and wellness activities.
Over the past 23 years, the fundraiser has helped bring in approximately $950,000, Chesler added, and credited the local community for the milestone.
“It’s absolutely overwhelming in the best way that our community rallies behind us to raise money for treatment, support and diagnosis of breast cancer. It’s wonderful,” she said. Every year the Hyatt’s ballroom is filled with approximately 300 people ready to participate in the live bra auction. A silent auction with services and other items is also held.
For De Grandis, who underwent treatment at the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Center herself, after already supporting the cause for over a decade, it was something she never thought she’d experiencebut was grateful regardless.
Before taking the stage, she wanted guests to see her strength.
“I think this was the fight of my life. I am a warrior and I fought my fight,” she said emotionally.
Following the first model, De Grandis walked onto the stage wearing a pink corset covered in rhinestones, with a pink bow around her neck, embracing the recognizable symbol of breast cancer awareness.
She was welcomed by a roar of cheers and applause as she made her way around the catwalk, her eyes filling with tears during the momentous occasion.
After several bids, her bra raised $10,000, the highest amount raised by a single bra in Bras for a Cause history.
Through it all, De Grandis had one simple thing to say: “I had a second chance at life. I’m happy to be here to celebrate.”
