**Influencer Sydney Towle Walks the Runway at Miami Swim Week amid Cancer Battle**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/sydney-towle-4-052926-6ca7a128b8d248c0b0d56d2df73236ed.jpg)
Sydney Towle, a 26-year-old influencer currently undergoing treatment for rare bile duct cancer, made a striking appearance at Miami Swim Week on 28th May 2026. She graced the runway as the opening model for The Chemo Club x Post Swim show, showcasing swimwear specifically designed for those who have experienced cancer treatment.
Just over a week prior to her runway debut, Towle faced a disheartening setback in her health journey. In a video shared on TikTok, she revealed that her oncologist had suggested abandoning further treatment in favour of end-of-life care. This news came as an unexpected blow as the influencer, initially diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma at the age of 23, was navigating between stages of a clinical trial involving tumour-infiltrating lymphocyte therapy.
Despite the grim recommendation from her doctor, Towle’s determination did not waver. In her social media update, she conveyed her refusal to accept this prognosis, asserting, “We are not at the point where we’re giving up.” Following this, she opted to switch oncologists who subsequently reviewed her scans and gave her the green light to travel to Miami.
Arriving in Miami just days before the event, Towle joined three other models—all of whom are either currently receiving treatment or are post-treatment—to present the swimwear line from Post Swim. The brand was founded by Lauren Yerkes, a cancer survivor, with the mission of crafting swimwear that celebrates post-cancer bodies.
Towle expressed her excitement about the opportunity to model for a brand that mirrors her personal experiences. “I’ve struggled a lot with a post-surgical body, especially having this hepatic artery pump placed in my stomach that is very obvious when I’m in a bathing suit,” she explained. She noted that the experience was empowered, stating, “It makes me feel even more proud to be in the body that I am that has carried me through so much.”
After spending time in the hospital until 22nd May, Towle felt grateful to have the chance to be in Florida. She acknowledged that the decision to attend the event was close, saying, “It came down to the wire” but credited her medical team for their support and encouragement to make the journey.
Reflecting on her experience by the ocean, Towle shared her affinity for sunny climates, declaring, “I’ve always felt better when I am in the sun or by the water.” However, she admitted to feeling somewhat nervous about the runway experience, noting the difference between modelling in front of her phone camera versus a live audience. “I’m still working on my confidence for sure,” she added.
Towle found camaraderie with her fellow models, who included Tori Martinez, 23, and Jen Taylor, 40, both currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer, while Danielle Gabriel, 30, is a survivor of the same disease. The models built a supportive environment, even communicating via group texts to encourage one another as they prepared for the show.
Highlighting the uplifting nature of their community, Towle stated, “It’s always such a special community when it’s a community of women who are uplifting each other and supporting each other.” She emphasised the unique bond that forms when individuals have shared experiences, especially in facing the challenges that accompany a cancer diagnosis.
As Miami Swim Week continues to celebrate fashion and diversity, Towle’s presence on the runway not only showcased resilience but also served as a beacon of strength for those battling similar challenges. Her story exemplifies the power of community and self-acceptance, proving that even in the face of adversity, empowerment and solidarity can shine brightly.