Survivor to shine at StyleWeek

Posted 8/14/14

She began wanting to wear high heels at the age of 5. Now, at age 35, her fashion line is hitting the runway during StyleWeek arriving in Providence next week.

A young breast cancer survivor, …

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Survivor to shine at StyleWeek

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She began wanting to wear high heels at the age of 5. Now, at age 35, her fashion line is hitting the runway during StyleWeek arriving in Providence next week.

A young breast cancer survivor, Caronah Cassell Johnson is also active with the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation and is part of their Young Survivors Group.

StyleWeek, established in 2009, was created with the vision of connecting buyers and press with emerging design talent. StyleWeek is not only a platform for the emerging designer, but an event that incorporates the industry, community and fashion enthusiasts.

“I remember coming home with my heels and my mother saying to my father, ‘Are you crazy, why did you buy this baby girl heels?’” Johnson said.

She only could wear the heels in the house, so every Saturday she would wear them and model all of her dresses for the family. She has wanted to be in fashion design since childhood, and never liked clothing off the rack, so she would customize everything to her liking.

“In the beginning, it was as simple as changing my buttons from my dresses,” Johnson said.

Two years ago, Johnson realized the importance of life when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. After treatments, her determination drove her to follow her dreams and return to the fashion industry. With the help of her family and friends as well as the Gloria Gemma Foundation, she was able to understand fashion as her purpose in life.

“Breast cancer has made me realize my purpose in life, my goals, my determination and career path. I love life more than before. The amount of love and caring from my family, husband and son Damien has been remarkable,” Johnson said. “This journey to wellness … has made me know what unconditional love looks like. The help from the Gloria Gemma Foundation, my second family – they are always there with open arms. I have been part of the organization’s Young Survivors program, which offers resources and support to women diagnosed with breast cancer before age 40.”

Johnson earned her degree with a dual major in fashion design and fashion marketing at the American InterContinental University in Atlanta, Ga.

At StyleWeek, she will be showing eveningwear with a twist of modern elegance.

“It’s such a great feeling. I’m so excited and proud that I have this great opportunity to shine,” Johnson said.

Johnson’s fashion show is 7 p.m. on Aug. 25 at the Providence Biltmore Hotel.

Tickets and more information can be found at StyleWeeknortheast.com.

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