This year’s Pink Ladies Day once again proved to be a beacon of hope, connection, and joy for women across Argyll who have faced breast cancer. Held on Friday, November 29 at the beautiful Loch Fyne Hotel in Inveraray, the flagship annual event welcomed more than 80 women to a day filled with pampering, laughter, good food and meaningful conversation.
With the help of 25 specialists in beauty, hair, nails, make-up, and holistic therapies—including massage, reiki, yoga, mindfulness, pilates, and reflexology—the event embodied the spirit of care and community it has fostered for 11 incredible years.
The day began with warm pastries and coffee as attendees arrived, many new to the “Pink Ladies” sisterhood. From there, they were whisked away to enjoy a variety of treatments, a swim, a sumptuous three-course lunch, and afternoon drinks.
Every detail was lovingly planned, including special treats throughout the day and a thoughtfully curated goodie bag. This year’s bags were a poignant tribute to Karen Miller, gifted by her family in celebration of what would have been her 60th birthday.
A Day of Escape and Togetherness
For many of the attendees, this special day offered a rare opportunity to pause, relax, and feel celebrated. Whether they were currently undergoing treatment, had recently finished, or were thriving after their diagnosis, the Pink Ladies shared a bond of resilience and inspiration, reminding everyone that they are not alone in facing the challenges of breast cancer.
Nicky Murphy, the event’s founder, expressed her gratitude for special guest, Jenni Minto, Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health, who spent time (on her birthday) connecting with the attendees. “Jenni offered words of support and encouragement, taking time to listen to the stories of our incredible ladies,” Nicky shared.
An Army of Love and Support
Pink Ladies Day wouldn’t be possible without the tireless efforts of so many generous individuals. The team acknowledged the contributions of the many volunteers and professionals who have supported the event over the years. Special thanks goes to Jacqui MacLean, Rie Emmers, Liz O’Neill and Lyndsey Dain (massage therapists), Sant Mezeiko, Lauren Davie, Laura McMath, Rachael Aitken and Rachel Sinclair (nails), Pamela Macdougall, Caroline Whitworth-Foster and Dawn Petherick (reiki), Sarah Louise Gillies, Carla and Tori (hair), LeeAnne Fraser Whyte, Kayla Reddick and Rachel Rutherford (make-up), Liam Rafter (mindfulness), Lorraine Robinson (pilates), Louise Hamilton (yoga) and Fiona Forbes (fun fitness). Their dedication continues to uplift and pamper the attendees. The exceptional team at Loch Fyne Hotel and Spa played an integral role in ensuring the day’s success.
Heartfelt thanks also goes to the fundraising heroes who help make the day possible, including Karen Cook, Gillian Stewart, John MacEachen’s family (Oban golf memorial day), the Miller family, Davie Hynds, Pamela Cheng, Rangers Supporters Club, the Strathlachlan Walking Group, Dawn Moore (line dancing), Alison Munro, Esther Clarke, Jimmy Love, Ellie Emmerson, Glenis Coles, Janet Gillespie, Ken Clarke, Paul & Claire Walker, the staff at Argyll House, Western Ferries, and so many more that attended events, donated prizes and bought raffle tickets.
Special mention to Oban Chocolate Company, Morrison Minibus Hire, Kents Butchers, Blairmore Café, Ian McColm, Helen McLay, Yolanda from Chouxmakes Cakes Angela Kerr, Alison Currie and the whole Gala Dinner team who generously contributed, while talented bands Soap and Toast brought music and joy during the year’s fundraising events.
Expanding Support Year-Round
This year marked a significant milestone with the evolution of Pink Ladies Day into a registered charity: The Pink Ladies of Argyll (SC053520). Founder Nicky Murphy and nine trustees—six of whom are breast cancer survivors—are working to extend support beyond the annual event.
Regular coffee meet-ups provide ongoing friendship and connection, while new partnerships offer services such as health and fitness advice, lymphatic drainage massage, and holistic therapies.
Looking ahead to 2025, the charity plans to fund initiatives like gym memberships, prosthetic bras, wigs, and image therapy, ensuring that breast cancer survivors have access to the resources they need to thrive.
Nicky added ‘I am now working with Shona, Liz, Maureen, Catriona, Angela, Louise, Karen and Gillian to make things happen and I am so grateful for their commitment to the ‘bigger picture’.
“Above all,” Nicky emphasised, “our mission is to provide a listening ear and a warm community to help these women move forward in a positive way.”
For more information about the Pink Ladies of Argyll or to get involved, email [email protected]. Together, this sisterhood is creating a legacy of strength, care, and hope—one day and one connection at a time.
