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Oakland Woman, 86, Funds Cancer Support Through Fashion
24 Sep
Summary
- An 86-year-old Oakland woman funds cancer support services.
- Her fashion shows have raised nearly $100,000 over 16 years.
- Proceeds benefit low-income women of color at a cancer resource center.
An 86-year-old Oakland resident, Bobbie Wakefield, has become a beacon of hope for cancer survivors through her innovative fundraising efforts. For the past 16 years, she has organized annual fashion shows to raise money for supportive services that many cannot afford.
Wakefield's nonprofit, Project Loving Life, has generated nearly $100,000, with proceeds benefiting thousands of cancer survivors annually. The majority of these survivors are low-income women of color who find solace and assistance through the Women's Cancer Resource Center in Berkeley.
The center's Sister-to-Sister program, supported by Wakefield's events, offers vital services such as free counseling, support groups, and retreats. This initiative is particularly impactful given that Black individuals often face higher cancer mortality rates.
Now in her 80s, Wakefield continues to lead the charge, coordinating details for the upcoming 16th Annual Gala and Luncheon on Saturday, October 10, in Union City. The event aims to raise an additional $30,000 for the Women's Cancer Resource Center, with her dedicated volunteers, including her children, ensuring its success.
