Lisburn businesswoman gets her dancing shoes on to raise money for cancer charity
Lisburn woman Rosaleen Stewart is getting her dancing shoes on once again to raise vital funds for Cancer Focus NI.
Rosaleen, who is well known as the owner of the popular Rosie’s Emporium in Bow Street Mall, is a keen dancer and when Cancer Focus NI advertised their latest fundraising effort, a Strictly Come Dancing style competition, she was quick to sign up.
The local businesswoman is no stranger to the dance floor. Not only is she a member of Ceroc Ignite Social Dancing in Belfast, she also took part in a similar Strictly style fundraiser for the charity two years ago.
She had so much fun the first time around she couldn’t resist signing up again this year.
Rehearsals are well underway at Lisburn Leisureplex each week, with the couples competing in the final of the competition at the Stormont Hotel in Belfast on March 27.
“I did this two years ago,” explained Rosaleen. “I really wanted to get out and dance and thought I would do it for a good cause.
"I just fell in love with it. I saw it advertised again just before Christmas and signed up.
"It was a fantastic experience the first time. The teachers are fantastic.”
Rosaleen and her dance partner Michael Conn have started rehearsing as part of the group number and they are looking forward to finding out what they will be dancing as a couple.
"We have only been learning the group number so far and it is extremely fast but it is such fun,” Rosaleen continued.
"The teachers watch how you dance together and choose a dance that suits you.
"For our dance I think I would like a rhumba but I’d like anything really. Possibly not a really fast jive!
"I would like a more serious dance as the last time I was more of a comedy act.”
Rosaleen has set up a fundraising page online and will be holding a bucket collection in Bow Street Mall on March 21-22, when local people can donate to help this important charity,
You can support Rosaleen’s fundraising effort by donating online at https://www.justgiving.com/page/rosaleen-stewart-2
Cancer Focus NI is a charity close to Rosaleen’s heart.
"My dad passed away from cancer 30 years ago so I know how vital the charities are, especially now that one in every two people will develop cancer,” Rosaleen explained.
"If I can raise some money to help that will be great.”
With just a few weeks left until the grand finale at the Stormont Hotel, Rosaleen is already looking forward to the big night,
"I am excited but I know from experience I will be nervous on the day,” she admitted.
"Most of us are all talk in the run up to it but then the nerves really do set in and my legs stop working before I dance!”
Despite the nerves, Rosaleen loves to dance and encourages other to find their own rhythm.
"I have really gotten into the dance community in the last two years,” she added.
"It is great for your health, your mental health and for social interaction as well.”