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By NICHLOS CUTRELL | Special to the Selma Times-Journal

BIRMINGHAM – The Haute Pink presented by Alabama Power brought inspiration, resilience and fashion to the stage of Red Mountain Theatre in downtown Birmingham.

The annual event was held Thursday night Oct. 9, raised more than $100,000 to benefit Forge, and Alabama based nonprofit that supports breast cancer patients.

The night showed breast cancer survivors and Forge clients walking the runway in custom designs created by local designers. A Selma native and civil rights foot soldier Linda Holmes, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2024, was featured at the event.

Holmes, selected as one of the featured models, embodies the spirit of strength and grace that Haute Pink aims to celebrate.

Forge was founded in 2016 through a collaboration led by the Women’s Breast Health Fund of the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham and several local healthcare systems offers services for those impacted by breast cancer.

The organization’s mission is to eliminate barriers to healing. Forge supports patients from the moment of diagnosis through survivorship and beyond, aiming to improve both health outcomes and quality of life.

Haute Pink is one of Forge’s most successful annual events. Each year, the fashion show honors the 300,000 women in the region who are living with breast cancer diagnosis. The event features real survivors who share their journeys on the runway while dressed in clothing made especially for them.

Designer Marilyn Thomason Locke was a featured designer at this year’s event. She worked with Linda Holmes to create a look that reflected her personal story. Holmes’ husband, Bruce L. Holmes Se., was present to support her, highlighting the critical role families and caregivers play in the recovery process.

The success of Haute Pink 2025 ensures that Forge can continue its life-changing programs for breast cancer patients across Alabama. With more than $100,000 raised in one night, the funds will go toward extending access to healthcare, easing the emotional and financial burdens of treatment and recovery, and providing a network of community support for those affected.

Haute Pink raises awareness, reminding the public that the fight against breast cancer goes far beyond the diagnosis. It is about honoring every person’s unique story.

For more information about Forge or to get involved, visit forgeon.org.