Kay Jones sported a floral skirt and a peach blazer from the Dress Barn of Manteca.

A 30-year breast cancer survivor, she made all those near and dear to her proud during Friday’s first-ever Couture for a Cure Fashion Show sponsored by the Ripon Relay for Life team, ‘One Step at a Time.’

Included was her granddaughter, Rochelle Souza, who, along with Kim Waterbury, was emcee of the runway event. “We’re here because we’ve all had someone touched by cancer,” she said.

Jones was one of 34 models – they were either cancer survivors or caregivers – featured in the event held in the Ripon High multi-purpose room.

The models proudly strutted their stuff while showcasing the latest styles from local boutiques and businesses.

All of the proceeds benefitted the American Cancer Society on behalf of the Ripon Relay for Life. According to event chair Melanie Sutton, ‘One Step at a Time’ is one of 15 teams currently signed up for the 24-hour community fundraising walk planned for May 18-19 at Stouffer Field.

Members of each team will take turns walking around the track and many plan to do the overnight campout in the Stadium.

Liz Waterbury is Kim’s mom. She had thyroid cancer and has endured a lifelong battle with leukemia. Mother and daughter embraced after Liz Waterbury modeled an outfit from La Pink a Mobile Boutique of Oakdale.

Nick Greenwood walked the runway on behalf of his brother Joey, who has leukemia that’s in remission for the better part of two years. Older sister Elizabeth and mother Stephanie also helped out as models.

Cancer survivor Marty Holmes strolled in front of the crowd joined by his young “miracle” children, Joshua and Haylee. He also appeared comfortable in casual wear from Envy Fine Clothing of Modesto – in this case, jeans and a button-down shorts sleeve plaid shirt – and Valadas Bowties of Ripon.

Clothing was also provided by Ragamuffin (Modesto), Blush Boutique (Ripon), Fab Kids (online, San Francisco), Tre Belle (Ripon), Pheroni (Modesto), and Bianca’s Bridal (Modesto).

The evening also featured many interesting stories on the models.

Laurie Oliver has Hodgkin Lymphoma that’s been in remission for the past six years.

Aly Fields’ breast cancer is also in remission.

Carrie Brodie survived liver cancer.

Pam Elkins was diagnosed with liver cancer about four years ago.

Carolyn Hendricks battled ovarian cancer.

Carol Lucas had breast cancer.

Stephanie Grace receives treatment for breast cancer.

Lexie Moorehead is a two-time breast cancer survivor.

As for the fashion show, Sutton enjoyed it. “It was exciting and the turnout was great for this being the first year,” she said.

For more information, call 209-481-4296 or click on to www.relayforlife.org/riponca.