Southlake ‘Models’ Inspire Support on the Runway

Record-setting Whiskey, Wine, and MR Menswear event advances cancer care.

On October 30, 2025, the NewRoads Performing Arts Centre hosted one of the community’s most anticipated fundraising events of the year: the Whiskey, Wine, and MR Menswear fashion show, bringing together supporters for an evening that blended style, philanthropy, and purpose.

At the heart of the event were eight Southlake Health physicians, who traded their scrubs for tailored suits as they stepped onto the runway in support of the HERE is Where Cancer Meets its Match campaign for Southlake’s Regional Cancer Centre. Their participation reflected the deep commitment of Southlake’s clinical team, not only to delivering exceptional care, but also to helping inspire the support that makes that care possible.

Guests enjoyed curated food, wine, and whiskey experiences while rallying behind a shared goal: ensuring that patients and families continue to have access to leading edge cancer care, close to home. The generosity of donors and supporters matched the energy in the room, resulting in more than $140,000 raised, making this the most successful event in its history.

This achievement was made possible through the leadership of Mike Rathke, President and Founder of MR Menswear in Aurora. Since 2007, Mike has supported Southlake through his long-running fashion show, inspired to give back after overcoming nearly fatal cancer at age 18 (followed by nine long years of recovery), and again in 2017 when he was diagnosed with cancer for a second time. Mike was already a Southlake supporter; the long journeys downtown for cancer treatment solidified for him and his friends the vital importance of access to advanced cancer care in their community.

Inspired by Mike’s ambitious commitment, a dedicated volunteer committee joined him, and their passion and hard work continue to elevate the event year after year. Southlake Health and Southlake Health Foundation also extend their sincere appreciation to the event’s sponsors and the many community members whose support continues to drive impact.

Participating physicians in 2025 included:

·       Dr. Peter Anglin – Medical Oncology

·       Dr. Lukasz Boba – Vascular Surgery

·       Dr. Philip Buckler – Diagnostic Imaging

·       Dr. Chris Coutinho – Anesthesiology

·       Dr. Matthew Laskin – Obstetrics

·       Dr. Christopher Overgaard – Cardiology

·       Dr. John Randle – Orthopaedic Surgery

·       Dr. Danyal Saeed – Palliative Care

Dr. Philip Buckler was recognized as “Southlake’s Next Top Model,” earning the distinction after raising the highest amount in support of the event’s fundraising efforts.

Events like Whiskey, Wine, and MR Menswear demonstrate the power of people coming together in support of a common cause, fueling innovation, enhancing patient care, and ensuring access to leading edge care for those facing cancer in our communities.