A Model that Dances Amongst Us to Create a Cure

The 6th annual Our Girl Linda Foundation held their charity dinner and LIVE auction and dance party fundraiser to benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital in honor of the ionic Maggie Inc model Linda Cole Petrosian whom passed from cancer. Linda was a woman with a smile that has touched so many and made her way around the world of fashion.

The event was held at the American Legion Post 440 in Newton and still it was not enough space to hold the loyal followers. The Queen of Glitz and Glamour Yolanda Cellucci, Linda’s mother alongside the Kings of the 617 Dimitri Petrosian, son and Host Jimmie Esposito opened the evening with heart felt speeches and first class entertainment.

Guests were then to enjoy dinner provided by Brelundi Restaurant in Waltham, dessert by Maria Capone while listening to the live Italian crooning from singer Joey Canazo. Following with the soul of the evening, giving back. Over twenty sponsors contributed to the event by donating gifts certificates and more! DJ Jimmie Esposito got the fundraiser floor and the bidding flowing with models that worked with Linda showcasing each item.

Esposito got guests digging deep into their pockets for items such as dashing furs, restaurant packages and an overnight stay in the North End of Boston when a bidder brought a deal to the DJ. Two women at the same table were battling it out for the luxury package and asked if DePasquale would double down, DONE! Two women celebrating their anniversaries in the heart of Boston’s Little Italy and extra to the kids that need it! The proceeds from the live auction went to the charity which supports St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Linda was lost to cancer yet an unforgettable force that is never gone is spirit. From there the “Our Girl Linda Dance Party” began and the floor opened for all to enjoy and ended twirling right out of the door. The only thing more memorable than that classic smile was her love for dancing!

The event raised over 50k! Linda’s life affected so many with love and continues to do so through the charity in her honor. As the after posts on social media poured from Linda’s fashion family, one thing was continually testified, with all going on in the world today it was truly remarkable to be in a room with so many amazing people and feel pure love.

On a personal note, I knew Linda from a very special point of view. Literally, she was a large part of myself becoming a runway writer. I was sent to my very first Boston Fashion Week show per the Post Gazette in 2011. Pam recommended designer Denise Hajjar at the Copley Plaza. As I entered the magnificent showcase, I was blessed to be able to cram into a corner. From the chandeliers, the VIP in the front row, the elegant designs. Then Linda came down the runway, her flawless walk, the professionalism in posture and to the press pit, she shot that smile. I was hooked, literally cried and never turned back. My career as a fashion writer was born. She was later to grace the cover of my first published fashion book in 2020 with a photo of her from that very show.

The last time I saw Linda was again at a Hajjar show. Unfortunately, she was unable to walk due to being so sick. I remember coming in the model entrance backstage, angry, upset over something so unnecessary. There was Linda rushing over to me to say hello, smile ear to ear. She hugged me and told me everything is going to work out, giving me motherly advice. She then sashed around the room with a glass of wine, the life of the party. I remember looking at her and thinking, “ I am crying over what? This wonderful woman is going to lose her life and it was the last thing on her mind”. A piece of me changed right then and there. That is what Linda did and continues to do, changes lives.

The Our Girl Linda Foundation was formed to bring together those who loved Linda. It is the helping hands of the amazing community that the Our Girl Linda Foundation was established in 2018. Their mission is to donate all funds to find a cure for cancer. Their members and volunteers provide the momentum that helps them affect change and make a positive impact. All contributions are donated to the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Visit www.ourgirllinda.com to contribute!