A DRAMA teacher who has battled back from breast cancer is taking to the catwalk to help raise cash for the Maggie’s centres in Oldham and Manchester where she received treatment.

Stephanie Eckhardt, aged 36, applied to be model at the Maggie’s on the Runway fashion show which takes place at Manchester Airport Viewing Park under the wings of Concorde on Saturday (June 16).

And she is appealing for sponsorship from local businesses as well as raising cash via her Just Giving page at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/stephanie-eckhardt.

Stephanie was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2017. Since then she has had reconstructive surgery lasting eight hours and gone through 18 weeks of chemotherapy, 15 rounds of radiotherapy and will be on hormone therapy for 10 years, to prevent a recurrence of the disease.

As the drama teacher at Waterhead Academy, she was unable to work during treatment. Stephanie has embraced being a mum to Raif, aged five, and been an active member of the community, supporting the #cleanglodwick anti-litter campaign.

She said the academy had been very supportive and the students have kept her motivated with cards and messages.

Stephanie has received treatment at Maggie’s cancer centres at the Royal Oldham Hospital and the Christie Hospital in Manchester.

She said: “Oldham hospital has been outstanding from beginning to end, offering complementary treatments as well as medical support.

“Maggie’s receives no government funding, but supports families affected by cancer and creates their own beautiful buildings to provide a relaxing space with a home-like environment.

“There are specialist nurses, financial advisors and counsellors available, as well as workshops and exercise classes. You don't need an appointment as they have a drop-in policy and are open all day Monday to Friday.

"I instantly felt at ease there and they helped my family as well as me. I wanted to do as much as possible to give something back.

“One of my teaching assistants encouraged me to apply for 'Maggie's on the Runway' - a chance to model in a fashion show under the Concorde at Manchester Airport Viewing Park, to raise money for the Manchester centre - and I got in."

Local fashion designer, Nadine Merabi has donated a gown in Stephanie's name as they were at school together at Hulme Grammar.

Once this show is over, Stephanie is organising a Performance Celebration evening on Tuesday, July 10 at 7pm, at Waterhead Academy, in aid of Maggie's Oldham.

There will be cakes and raffle prizes as well the outstanding talent show. Anyone who want to support this event should contact Stephanie at s.eckhardt@waterheadacademy.co.uk