Fashion show proceeds to help Sophia on her journey towards walking again

Proceeds from a festive fashion show taking place in Cork next month will go towards helping a young Carrigaline girl realise her dream of walking independently.

Sophia Meade, who is living with spina bifida, will open up the Cork Runway Christmas Fashion Show at the Odyssey Club on December 11.

Founded by Lydia O’Keeffe and The Model-Cast Podcast, this event promises to be a celebration of Cork fashion, local boutiques, homegrown talent, and, perhaps above all, community spirit.

Ms O’Keeffe, the co-owner of Cork Runway, said this year’s event carries an even more meaningful purpose, as it aims to support a very special little girl from the local community.

“The chosen charity focus is supporting Temple Street and raising vital funds for 10-year-old Sophia.

“Sophia faces significant daily challenges and requires ongoing treatment over the coming year, with the hope of helping her achieve the ability to walk independently. This support could make a life-changing difference to Sophia and her future,” said Ms O’Keeffe.

Sophia is due to have surgery on her right foot at Temple Street. As part of the treatment, she will have an external fixator (a medical device used to stabilise and correct the position of a bone) fitted.

This will entail her having to travel from Cork to Dublin every week for up to a year.

“Through this year’s Christmas fashion show, we hope to bring the Cork community together to raise much-needed funds, increase awareness, and show Sophia and her family that they have the support of their local community behind them,” said Ms O’Keeffe.

A GoFundMe account has been set up to help cover the cost of necessities such as travel costs and possible overnight stays.

“We believe this is a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on the generosity of the Cork community, celebrate local fashion and businesses, and, most importantly, share the story of a brave young girl whose journey deserves to be heard,” said Ms O’Keeffe.