Illinois State Troopers Out of Uniform, Strutting in Couture

Fashion Flash 2013, a fashion show featuring state troopers modeling couture on the runway, raises money for Compass to Care Childhood Cancer Foundation.  This event in Chicago on July 27th, 2013, brings together everyone from nationwide corporations to local businesses supporting the charity’s cause in a trendy and energetic atmosphere.

The charity fashion show features Illinois State Troopers as runway models, named the “Fashion Police.” The state troopers return this year after being showstoppers as models in last year’s runway show. They heard Compass to Care’s story and volunteered to participate after learning about families going through these devastating situations.  

Compass to Care raises money at this event to sponsor Charvion Davis, currently being treated at Lurie Children’s Hospital for leukemia. Not every hospital in America can treat children with cancer. 40% of children diagnosed with cancer do not have an oncologist within 60 miles of them. Thus, Compass to Care plans all the travel arrangements for the child and their family and covers all of the costs that come along with it.

“It is already devastating enough to have a child battling this disease.  It is worse when a parent does not have the money to put gas in the car, pay for parking, pay for meals or buy an airline ticket,” mentions Michelle M. Ernsdorff, founder and CEO,  “So many families face this situation and don't know where to turn for help.  We have had children miss their cancer treatments because their parents couldn't afford to get them there.”

Childhood cancer foundation, Compass to Care, receives sponsorships from different companies, such as Caregiverlist, an online service connecting seniors and professional caregivers with the most reliable eldercare options, highest quality ratings and outstanding careers nationwide.

“Caregiver stress adds to the challenges families experience when a child has a serious illness.  Caregiverlist looks forward to supporting Compass to Care’s mission and applauding the troopers flaunt fashion like ‘America’s Next Top Models,’” says Julie Northcutt, Caregiverlist CEO and founder.

Sponsors of the event include Center on Halted Corona Crown Imports LLC David Stearn Photography Illinois State Police Pinnacle Vodka Rebirth Photo Style Matters DJs Caregiverlist and more.

Fashion show tickets may be purchased online. VIP Tickets include access to the cocktail reception at 6pm, reserved seating for the show and a VIP gift bag. Only 24 VIP tickets are available for $125 each. Advanced purchase tickets give attendees general admission to the show and a gift bag. General admission tickets bought before July 25th at midnight sell for $75 and go up to $85 after midnight.

Fashion Flash 2013

Date: July 27th, 2013

Time: 6:30pm-10:30pm

Place: Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, Chicago, IL 60613

The Center on Halsted is located in Chicago just a few blocks from Wrigley Field. Transportation accessible by El train and city buses. While underground parking is unavailable to Center on Halsted patrons, visitors may be able to find metered street parking available on Halsted or Waveland. Daytime visitors may find residential parking on nearby streets. 

Kidney cancer survior, Michelle M. Ernsdorff, founded this children’s cancer foundation in 2010.  Diagnosed in 1974 with a Wilm’s tumor, Michelle’s family began travelling to the Mayo clinic for treatment.  Over the next two years, Michelle’s family faced much emotional and financial stress.  In 1976, Michelle went into remission after getting her kidney removed. 

“Compass to Care steps in to provide relief.  We believe these families have enough to worry about, so we just want to do our part to take remove one burden so they can focus on just getting their child the best chance to beat cancer,” says Michelle, “We are so grateful to all of those who believe in our cause and stand by our side to help these children and families on their cancer journeys.”