Elly Mayday

A Tribute to Elly Mayday (A Perfect 14) - headshot

Elly Mayday was a Canadian model and public speaker known for her work in the plus-size modeling industry and her advocacy for body positivity and women's health. Born Ashley Luther in Saskatchewan, Canada, she adopted the professional name Elly Mayday to pursue a career in modeling. Mayday's journey was not only significant for her achievements in the fashion industry but also for her courageous battle with ovarian cancer, which she openly shared with the public to raise awareness about the disease.

Early Life[edit | edit source]

Ashley Luther was born and raised in Saskatchewan, where she developed an interest in fashion and modeling from a young age. Despite not fitting the conventional size standards of the modeling industry, she was determined to make her mark.

Career[edit | edit source]

Elly Mayday moved to Vancouver, British Columbia, to pursue her modeling career. She quickly became a prominent figure in the plus-size modeling scene, known for her distinctive vintage style and pin-up looks. Mayday worked with various plus-size fashion brands and appeared in numerous fashion magazines, contributing to the visibility and acceptance of diverse body types in the fashion industry.

Advocacy[edit | edit source]

Beyond her modeling career, Mayday was a vocal advocate for body positivity, encouraging women to embrace their bodies regardless of size or shape. Her advocacy took on a new dimension when she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Instead of stepping away from the spotlight, Mayday chose to share her cancer journey openly, including the loss of her hair and the scars from her surgeries, to highlight the realities of the disease and the importance of early detection and treatment.

Personal Life and Legacy[edit | edit source]

Elly Mayday's battle with ovarian cancer was a significant part of her life and work. She underwent multiple surgeries and treatments, all while continuing to model and speak out about her experiences. Mayday's openness about her cancer journey inspired many, making her a symbol of strength and resilience. She passed away in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy and inspiration.

Death[edit | edit source]

Elly Mayday passed away in March 2019 after a long battle with ovarian cancer. Her death was widely mourned in the fashion and body positivity communities, with many paying tribute to her contributions to both fields and her courage in facing cancer.

Impact[edit | edit source]

Elly Mayday's impact on the fashion industry and on the awareness of ovarian cancer is significant. She helped to challenge and change perceptions of beauty and body image in the modeling world, while also bringing attention to a disease that often goes undetected until it is advanced. Her legacy continues to inspire those in the fashion industry and beyond to embrace diversity and to advocate for health awareness.