Several months ago, my sister Susan was asked to participate in a fashion show luncheon event to benefit the San Joaquin River Parkway called “Parties for the Parkway.” This annual event, in its 11th year, features clothing that depicts the life, interests, and personalities of six women. Each woman (of which Susan was one) is asked to come up with three segments, each that contain an assortment of models (not necessarily professionals), and clothing. The event was Saturday, the 19th of November. It was quite a commitment, and since over the last two weeks we have been heavily occupied with caring for our mother and dealing with her diagnosis, the added responsibility of the fashion show weighed heavily upon her.
Her models included her two nieces, Meredith and Melissa. They added personality and panache, and of course, they were able to demonstrate Susan’s personality to the audience.
It’s often said that God doesn’t give us more than we can handle. This is an example. It was a wonderful event, and her part was fabulous! The only bit of sadness was that our mother wasn’t there to see it. My dear friend Gay Morris took her place … her own mother was terminally ill this time last year.
Below is the short paragraph about her that was part of a handout that the guests received. It gave everyone an idea of the purpose behind her collection:
The Susan Chance Collection
The fun and fanciful personality of Susan Chance is what enables her to be creative, embrace change, and interpret turns in the road of life. As a young child, she entertained her family with spontaneous humor and vivid expression. Susan began her career in hair 41 years ago when it was costume de rigueur to wear a white uniform, opaque hose, and white shoes. The profession dress code evolved into “anything goes”. Susan incorporated an element of surprise into her work challenges. She served as catcher on a softball team, and when rollerblading hit the scene, Susan was there in full gear. She experienced the thrill of running across the marathon finish line five times. She became a Harley and Indian motorcycle enthusiast, eventually joining the CamTwisters of Fresno Car Club. Her membership allows her to “hot dog” it with others, often to benefit charity. Susan has attended numerous events over the years, which present her with creative opportunities. Her wish for the future is to continue seeking out the outlandish and stretching herself to the limit.
I was able to videotape her fun collection. Perhaps you will be able to identify the meaning behind some of the attire (YouTube links are below). Hints: The dress she wore when she married Steve Chance, what she wears while serving hot dogs at charity events sponsored by her car club; what she would like to do some day if the opportunity is presented to her. Below are three videos … check them out! And don’t miss the last video of her walk down the runway with her gorgeous youngest son, Andy. He served as the “emcee” of her collection.
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