Fashion show raises hundreds of pounds for Samantha Smith

Date published: 08 May 2019

A fashion show at The Marina Bar and Grill in Littleborough has raised hundreds of pounds for Samantha Smith’s rehabilitation after life-saving neurosurgery.

The spring-summer 2019 fashion show by Pretty Parade raised an impressive £868 with two catwalks, a welcome drink, goodie bags and afternoon tea.

A raffle was also held with many generous prizes donated by local businesses.

Pretty Parade was launched in November 2018 by 21-year-old Mollie Butterworth. Mollie said: “I would like to thank everyone who attended and thank every one of our loyal customers.

“After a successful spring fashion show, we look forward to the autumn winter event.”

Emma Zyla, Mollie’s sister, added: “Samantha still has a long road to recovery, but she was able to attend and gave a speech to thank everyone, especially her children.”

Samantha’s ‘lifetime fix’ operation in America went ahead on 11 February, a 10-hour operation removing movement in her spine by stabilising her vertebrae with fusion and hardware from inside her throat and the back of the neck. 

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/126023/samantha-smith-undergoes-lifesaving-operation-in-arizona

Samantha, a psychotherapist and brave mum of two, was diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) in December 2016 - a genetic condition causing faulty connective tissue that can lead to further medical complications.

Only months later, she was also diagnosed with Craniocervical Instability (CCI), a secondary condition linked to EDS that meant the ligaments in Samantha’s neck were too stretched and weakened to support her head, causing the top of her spine to squash her brainstem under the weight of her own skull.

Samantha is now recovering back at home in Smithy Bridge.