Excitement is building for one of Donegal’s biggest fashion events this year, as Penneys Letterkenny hosts its first in-store catwalk show this Tuesday.
The event is in support of a hugely popular colleague, Olivia Robb from Newtown, who was recently diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
Olivia, who has worked at Penneys for 29 years, is facing a challenging journey ahead.
To help Olivia and her family, the store has organised a series of fundraisers including Tuesday’s fashion show, which is already a sold-out success.
Three hundred tickets have been snapped up for the show, which promises to be a stylish spectacle with Olivia’s family, staff, friends, and children taking to the runway. Local social media celebrities have also joined the initiative, with V&M podcasters Marty and Vinny, Donegal Daddy Michael Brennan and Gracie, Wild Atlantic Traveller Kevin Dooher, and the Viking Dippers lending their support.
Music will be provided by DJ Marty Friel, while Made Up Mummy Sarah Terry Sweeney takes on MC duties.
The fundraising efforts extend beyond the fashion show. Penneys staff have been busy organising raffles in-store and a reunion for past and present employees on Easter Saturday. Additionally, staff member Claire Coughlan is donating all proceeds from her Self Care Wellness event on May 16th at the Silver Tassie.
The funds raised will go towards supporting Olivia, her husband Brendan, and their 13-year-old daughter as Olivia’s condition progresses. The aim is to help Olivia manage the financial costs of adapted transport, medical equipment, and accommodation for hospital appointments in Dublin.
Olivia Robb and family
Olivia, known for her vibrant personality, is originally from Sligo and has become a cherished member of the local community over the last 30 years.
The Penneys fashion show is a unique opportunity to not only see the latest trends but also to come together to show support to a special family.
You can also donate to help the Robb family here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-robb-family
