By Dionne Meehan
THE ATMOSPHERE in Penneys was electric on Tuesday night as hundreds gathered in the Letterkenny store to attend their fundraising Fashion Show.
The staff in Penneys organised this event in support of their colleague, Olivia Robb, who was recently diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.
Working with the company for almost 30 years, Olivia is a well-known face in the store and is adored by those around her.
Described as a bubbly and caring person by her managers, Olivia’s colleagues made it their mission to give something back to her and her family.
And with tickets for the event selling out almost immediately, Store Manager, George Murphy thanked everyone for their support.
“You would have got a ticket for the Oscars quicker than getting a ticket for here tonight,” he declared.
“Thank you so much for all the support from our customers and the local businesses, you have been so generous.
“It has been outstanding the support that we have received for Olivia and her family.”
On the night, over 70 models took to the catwalk to strut their stuff showing off the finest fashion Penneys has to offer.
And as crowds watched on, grinning from ear to ear, a mix of well-known local influencers, staff and members of the Robb family got behind Olivia and made lasting memories.
As the special night came to an end, Ailish Gardiner delivered a few words on Olivia’s behalf.
“I, Brendan, Lisa and our family and friends would like to thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for all the prayers, love and support we have received over the past few weeks and months.
“We have been overwhelmed by all the hard work that has been put into the fundraising which has been organised to help me now, into the future and for my care and my needs.
“I personally would like to say how humbled I feel with the outpouring of support and generosity from my work buddies, family and friends and the wider community.
“I feel truly blessed.
“On a lighter note, most people know how much I like the craic and banter so tonight has been a fun and very entertaining evening.
“Everyone has put so much time, effort and love into tonight.
“We will leave here full of joy, with happy memories and for that I say a huge thank you to you all.
“Love from Olivia,” the speech concluded.
Molly and Ruby Johnston at the Penneys fashion show.
Putting on a show…Penneys staff members and models working hard behind the scenes.
Penneys store manager George Murphy.
Members of the Robb family enjoying the entertaining fashion show in Penneys on Tuesday evening.
Fiona, Megan, Dympna and Chloe had front row seats for the big Penneys fashion show on Tuesday evening.
Gracie stole the show at the Penneys charity fashion event.
MC Sarah Terry Sweeney with DJ Marty Friel.
On the catwalk…big smiles from these young models.
In the bag…models get the show underway with a unique fashion statement.
Members of the Robb family, Mary Robb, Christine Doherty and Ailish Gardiner held an early St. Patrick’s Day parade during the charity fashion show in Penneys, Letterkenny on Tuesday evening. The sold-out show was organised to help former Penneys staff member Olivia Robb from Newtowncunningham who was recently diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
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