Post press release with Kirstia Renee Drury’s interview

2nd Annual Kentucky Derby Fashion Show 830 Phillips Ln, Louisville, KY 40209 04/15/2018 5:30-9:00 pm.

Live Out Loud Charity (LOLC) hosted a fashion show to raise funds for suicide prevention and anti-bullying. Local and national fashion designers showcased their collections on stage at one of Louisville’s premier venues; the Crowne Plaza. Over 460 people attended and over 150 models of all sizes, heights, ages, and ethnic backgrounds took the stage to stand against suicide and bullying. “Some of our models are professionals, but all are real people affected by suicide, depression, bullying, and low self-esteem. Each person that walks our runway is empowered by our training and the incredible experiences they gain at LOLC events. Live Out Loud Charity is a major support system for individuals needing a positive outlet to rebuild their confidence,” states founder, Sherrie Gearheart.

Spokespersons including Teen Kentucky Ambassador Shanna McClung along with Sherrie Gearheart educated the audience on the signs of depression, the steps for suicide intervention, and the resources available for those in need. Funds raised from the benefit aided in the organization’s 2018 community outreach in core character development and anti-bullying. Community members, media outlets, and school officials attended the benefit. Performers at the show were Kentucky teen vocalist Savannah Reeves along with Atlanta based singer/songwriter Jason London. Opening the show was child singer Dylan Maynard and Kathy Navigator. The fashion show had designers from Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois. The official designers that showcased in the 2nd Annual Kentucky Derby Fashion Show for LOLC included: MJ Millennial Collection, Kimberly Phillips Clothier, Brick Malone, JossyBelle Boutique, Sharisa Couture Designs, Danaya Designs 4U, Wonderfulee Marlee, Jackson Skyler, Keyan Karr, Bella Royal, Jordan Skeen, HEKaTuRe Designs, Bryan Boyd, and The Polkadotted Pineapple Boutique.

Now we will hear from: 

KIRSTIA RENEE DRURY / KEYAN KARR in Kentucky 

·       What was the inspiration behind this collection? What are your favorite pieces?

o  “My inspiration will always be my sister, she died when I was 9 of leukemia.”

·       Why did you become involved with Live Out Loud Charity?

o   “I was honored to participate because I can relate to the cause. I’ve suffered from the mania for years, so it was very important to me to be a part of a great show, shedding light on mental illness and suicide prevention.”

·       Do you have any upcoming fashion shows people can see your collection in?

·       Where can we follow you or learn more about your collection?

o   I am on Facebook as Keyan Karr

o  Instagram as @keyankarrmdm

Did you miss our last fashion show? No Worries. We would like to invite the public to our upcoming 9thAnnual International Fashion Show for Live Out Loud Charity, held at the Indianapolis Arts Garden, in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.

Live Out Loud Charity is a non-profit organization founded in 2010. LOLC’s mission is to save lives through awareness and education. The organization has reached millions of people worldwide through television, radio, magazines, school tours, awareness events, and newspapers. The non-profit holds an annual Leadership Academy, training volunteers as spokespersons and ambassadors in the QPR Institute’s suicide intervention program, its Core Character Development workshops, and STAR anti-bullying presentations. LOLC has successfully trained over 100 representatives across the United States as well as internationally in Puerto Rico, Ireland, the Philippines, Jamaica, Liberia, Canada, and France. To learn more visit: www.liveoutloudcharity.org For additional information contact: Sherrie Gearheart, info@ liveoutloudcharity.org (815) 914-860.

 Photography: Carols Rodolfo Chinchilla

Photography: Alex Callejo, AC Photography (grey & yellow pants outfit)