Woman sells dresses for hospice that supports her
BBCA woman living with a rare type of Parkinson's is auctioning off more than 50 of her dresses in aid of a hospice that is helping her and her family.
"I'll be sad to let them go, but happy that they're going for a good cause," said Victoria Emery, from Stafford, who is being cared for by Katharine House Hospice.
Emery has multiple system atrophy, a rare incurable illness that leads to problems with muscle control and movement.
According to the NHS, it cannot currently be cured, but treatments are available to help manage symptoms.
As well as auctioning her dresses to raise money, members of her family will be doing a sponsored walk along the full length of the Sandstone Trail in Cheshire, a 55km (32-mile) route which begins in Frodsham and finishes in Whitchurch, Shropshire.
Katharine House Hospice has supported Emery throughout her illness, with staff even arranging a scuba diving experience at a local pool when they heard about her passion for diving.
"The hospice continues to look after me so well," she said. "Donating my dresses feels like a lovely way to give something back and help other people who need the same care and support."
The dresses will be sold after a live fashion show at Stafford Rangers Football Club on Sunday, with Emery's friends and modelling everything from casual day dresses to sparkling evening gowns.
Her brother, Ken McMullan will take on the role of auctioneer, while her son will provide the music for the catwalk.
"I know what some of these dresses represent," he said.
"I hope that I can remember some of the stories, because I think it adds value to a lot of them."
He added: "I think she's going to be most upset to see some of them go, but they are going for a very, very worthy cause."
An online fundraising page has already raised more than £2,500 but Emery and her family are hoping this will significantly increase following their walk and auction.
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