Team Deedz

Why are you participating in this year’s Teal Diva 5K?

To honor all those affected by Ovarian Cancer. In honor of an amazing mother, sister, daughter, friend, and co-worker, DeeDee Ward-Wright, who passed away In October. 

Who are you walking for?

DeeDee Ward-Wright 

Why do you think it’s important to show up and walk at the 5K? 

To show our support for the families and survivors of Ovarian Cancer and to honor our mother. 

What is your favorite thing about the 5K?

Participating the past 4 years – I love the community. From fundraising, volunteering, to becoming a Team Captain in honor of my mother. The 5K shows us all that we are not alone and we have such a beautiful sisterhood to support and lean on. 

What would you like to tell people about the Teal Diva 5K?

One of the most emotional, yet fun days of the year. The 5K is a true representation of sisterhood. All women need to know the signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer.

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Celebrating Sandy van de Poel

Why are you participating in this year’s Teal Diva 5K? 

In 2022, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 uterine cancer. In the year that followed, I had a radical hysterectomy and underwent chemo and radiation treatments. I am now cancer-free, and feel that it is important to support the Teal Diva organization and their mission. While I had a wonderful medical team that took (and continues to take) very good care of me, I absolutely love that the Teal Diva organization recognizes the need to nurture the emotional and mental wellness of women diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer. 

Who are you walking for? 

Myself. My team is made up of family and friends that have supported me with prayer, love, and encouragement during my cancer journey.

One of Teal Diva’s core values is hands down, sisterhood. We believe that time spent together as gynecologic cancer survivors is priceless and feeds the soul. We had the opportunity to gather together women, who have previously attended a Teal Diva retreat, for a totally-teal reunion! We shared stories, trials, hugs, tears, smiles and LAUGHS – while connecting as we took a break from reality, a reprieve, an exhale. We are thankful these ladies said ‘yes’ and gave their time to pour into each other, reminding each other that they are not alone in this life, even when it’s bumpy.

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“Loved every minute of this weekend! Thank you ladies for the connections, the laughter, the understanding, the new friendships and motivation to do more!” – Karla, survivor & attendee

“This has been such a great weekend hunting together in love and tenderness for each other. I will cherish every moment of our time together and write down these memories so I won’t easily forget them. Each smile, and every story has resonated with me and this time has enriched my life. Thank you for the laughs, the tears, and the hop e that will carry me through until we meet again.” -Anita, survivor & attendee

“Thank you to everyone for making this an incredible, meaningful and memorable experience. I love each and every one of you!” -Joanne, survivor & attendee

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We could not have had such a successful weekend with out our sponsors and supporters. GSK Oncology and Carolina’s Natural Health Center sponsored delicious meals we were able to eat ‘family style’ catered by La Tea Da’s Catering and Terre A’ Terre Catering. Also, a huge shout out to our project supporters; Vibrational Sound Living, To Teal-ly Sisters, Meg Art Studio, Lake Norman Pickleball, Katie Warren, and Confluence Kayaks for providing engaging activities through out the weekend.

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Thanks again to GSK Oncology, and please check out this video for ‘Wellness Beyond Your Cancer Treatment’ We hope you find it as helpful as we did!

https://gateway.on24.com/wcc/experience/eliteGSKplc2/3937005/3970170/living-with-cancer-wellness-resources

Today we are excited to start spotlighting some of our Charlotte 5K teams! These teams join us for all different reasons and we are excited to share a little bit of their story. There is still time to join these teams and the Teal Diva crew at our Charlotte race!

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Shine on for Kristin

Why are you participating in this year’s Teal Diva 5K?

Our participation in the Teal Diva 5k this year is healing in a sense – seeing and joining others who are on this journey come together and being part of something focused on helping others experiencing cancer through a community of support, encouragement, and hope. We joined the walk in 2023 for the first time, and the experience affirmed that our participation in the Teal Diva 5k is how we want to honor Kristin’s life (and her birthday) each year- to be a part of the teal community and through this Kristin “Shines On”.  

Who are you walking for?

Kristin Brady. Daughter, Sister, SIL, Friend, Teacher, Artist.

Why do you think it’s important to show up and walk at the 5K

To be present is to be a small part of a bigger community committed to making a difference in the lives of Teal Divas and their families.  By being there and walking – each person joins this community and contributes to the goal of support and informing and educating others.   

What is your favorite thing about the 5K?

Being together with family and friends to show support, and hear the stories others share about how Teal Divas is helping and lift up those with ovarian and other gynecologic cancers.

What would you like to tell people about the Teal Diva 5K?

No one should have to go through this alone and the Teal Diva community is there for those who need it.  We remember our daughter sharing with us how hopeless and helpless she felt sometimes going through this. If we can make an impact in someone else’s journey while sharing the light of Kristin’s legacy, that is what it’s all about.

Teal Diva understands and is there to listen, provide help and support, and celebrate the wins. Truly..Teal Heroes!  

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Team – Lynn Mangan

Why are you participating in this year’s Teal Diva 5K?

I will be a 6 year Ovarian Cancer Survivor July 20, 2024!

Who are you walking for?

Walking for myself, past women who have departed, those going through their journey and those newly diagnosed. 

Why do you think it’s important to show up and walk at the 5K?

I will always support the Teal Divas in any way possible. I love being as athletic as possible and share my passion for fighting!

What is your favorite thing about the 5K?

Getting together with men and women who support me in my life and seeing all the magnificent teams supporting others. 

What would you like to tell people about the Teal Diva 5K?

It’s an experience like no other. 

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Embracing Self-Care with Teal Diva

As we delve into the month of March, a time often associated with the emergence of spring and renewal, we at Teal Diva are embarking on a journey of mindfulness. This month, we’re proudly declaring it Mindful March, a time to tap into the power of mindfulness and embrace self-care practices that nurture both our minds and bodies.

Taking Care of Me – Simple Self-Care and Mindfulness Tools for Managing Stress

Do you ever find yourself feeling stressed and run-down, on the verge of throwing in the towel? We’ve all been there. That’s why we’re inviting you to join us as we explore and practice ways to stay mindful, establish healthy boundaries, seek support when needed, and prioritize self-care through techniques that don’t demand extensive time commitments but offer lasting benefits.

Self-care isn’t about indulgence; it’s about recognizing what we need and honoring those needs. It can be as straightforward as getting an extra hour of sleep or as profound as reevaluating our habits and their long-term impacts.

Different Types of Self-Care

Self-care isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s about finding what works for you and integrating it into your daily routine. Here are some simple yet effective self-care practices to consider:

• Mindful Breathing (Mind) – Dedicate just 5 minutes to focus solely on your breath, allowing yourself to center and find calm.
• Micro-Mindfulness Moments (Mind) – Throughout the day, take brief pauses to reconnect with the present moment, grounding yourself in the here and now.
• Body Scan Meditation (Body and Mind) – Spend 10 minutes scanning your body for tension, gradually releasing any areas of tightness or discomfort.
• Setting Digital Boundaries (Mind) – Establish boundaries with technology to protect your mental well-being, ensuring that you have designated times for unplugging and recharging.
• Power of No (Mind and Boundaries) – Learn to say no when necessary, prioritizing your own needs and commitments.
• Journaling Expressive Writing (Mind and Body) – Spend 10 minutes journaling your thoughts and feelings, allowing for self-expression and reflection.
• Gratitude/Affirmations (Mind and Body) – Take 5 minutes to cultivate gratitude and affirmations, shifting your focus toward positivity and abundance.
• Body Movement Break (Body) – Incorporate 5-minute movement breaks into your day, whether it’s stretching, dancing, or going for a short walk.
• Asking for Help (Mind and Boundaries) – Recognize when you need support and reach out to trusted friends, family members, or professionals.
• Mindful Check-Ins (Mind and Body) – Regularly check in with yourself throughout the day, tuning into your emotions and physical sensations.
• Quick Mindful Pause (Mind) – Take just 2 minutes to pause and reset, allowing yourself to breathe and refocus.
• Progressive Muscle Relaxation (Body and Mind) – Dedicate 10 minutes to systematically relax your muscles, releasing tension and promoting relaxation.

Creating a “Good for Me” Self-Care Plan

The key to effective self-care is consistency and customization. By combining various self-care practices that resonate with you, you can create a holistic self-care plan that supports your overall well-being. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential for maintaining resilience, vitality, and a sense of balance in our lives.

As we embrace Mindful March with Teal Diva, let’s prioritize self-care and mindfulness, recognizing that by nurturing ourselves, we can better show up for others and thrive in all aspects of our lives. Join us on this journey of self-discovery and self-compassion, and let’s make this March a month of renewal, growth, and inner peace.  We have 2 mindfulness events left, both are on Zoom so you can join from anywhere!  RSVP below so you can get the Zoom link and a reminder before our event!

March 22, 2024 1pm – Creating and Maintaining Boundaries

March 25, 2024 11am – Kind Thoughts & Meditation 

Today is Giving Tuesday! Today we are asking out Teal Diva community to help us continue to touch the lives of survivors by donating to our Yes Girl program. This year we have impacted 255 GYN cancer survivors through Yes Girl, and with your help we want to double or even triple that number in 2024. In order to do that though WE NEED YOU

I’m telling you this because your donations matter! Through the end of the year, we are focusing our efforts on our Yes girl program. Yes Girl provides financial assistance by way of mortgage /rent assistance, utilities assistance, gas/grocery, and help with household projects/maintenace.

We have a goal to raise $25,000 by year end for this program. We are just over $8,000. Please consider making a donation and help us reach this goal. You can participate in the raffle through Giving Tuesday and/or make a donation. Both links can be found by clicking below.

We will be in person at NoDa Brewing for a Night of Giving on Tuesday, Nov 28 (Giving Tuesday). We invite you to join us!

Donate to Yes Girl

Get your raffle tickets

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These are some of our amazing raffle items! We are currently selling tickets NOW! Don’t wait! Follow the link to get your tickets! https://app.galabid.com/tealdivayggt/items

As we are a week away from Giving Tuesday 2023, we wanted to share with you some of the testimonials that have been shared with us by recipients of our Yes Girl home projects help. This year for Giving Tuesday we are asking you to support Teal Diva, so we can continue to make a difference in GYN cancer survivors lives.

We at Teal Diva know all too well that cancer is an interruption to your world. Bills still need to be paid and household chores still need to get done. We would like to introduce you to Yes Girl!: a community service project/small grant program offered by Teal Diva in the Carolinas.

When we say yes, she wins! We say yes so, she can fight, so she can rest, so she can release these small burdens and doesn’t have to fight alone.

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I just wanted to give a quick shout out to the Yes Girl program ran by Teal Diva volunteers. Part of my deck was redone with the help of some wonderful people. I don’t have a lot of time being a widowed dad of two and I was able to put a few fish in the boat on the weekend this was done for me. -T. Zielinksi

I am immensely grateful to Teal Diva and the “Yes Girl “volunteers for the work that they did in and around my home. My husband and I have been so consumed by my cancer and treatment over the past three years, that many household projects have fallen by the wayside. I looked at my surroundings and felt severe anxiety over all of the work that had to be done, It was overwhelming. By completing these projects, the “Yes Girl “volunteers have given me a sense of serenity. I no longer feel anxious when I look around my home, I only feel joy, gratitude and love. I am truly humbled, I had no idea that so many others cared. I only hope that someday I am well enough to pay it forward and help someone else the way these wonderful people have helped me. Thank you to everyone who worked on the project, raised funds or contributed money. Most of all, thank Shannon for making it happen. – J. Trull

Thank you for the house cleaning. They did such a fantastic job and I can’t tell you how good it made me feel to have my entire house all clean at one time! – S. Spratt

I was so very fortunate to have Teal Diva trim the bushes around my house. They did a phenomenal job. I have already received so many compliments! Teal Diva is truly an exceptional organization! Everyone worked so hard and they were so professional. Also they were such a fun and motivating group. To help those in need and to do so with such grace and willingness is truly a blessing from God. Thank you, Teal Diva! You are truly exceptional! – D. Byrd

I was diagnosed with cancer two years ago. I want to thank Teal Diva for brightening up my life. My house needed a facelift so bad and thanks to Teal Diva, my prayers were answered. God bless you all! – N. Palmer

I love the work you all have done. You all are a blessing from God and I hope all the other people you do work for love the work you do for them. Debra.

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We would love to have you at our Giving Tuesday event November 28, 2023 at NoDa Brewing Company! We are taking over the tap, all drinks bought that night will benefit Teal Diva and the Yes Girl program. Also, we have a HUGE raffle going on, you can support Teal Diva by purchasing tickets below!

We asked some of our Yes Girl volunteers to share why they choose to give their time and energy to Teal Diva’s Yes Girl program.

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It has been an absolute privilege to volunteer for Yes Girl, offering not only a sense of purpose but also a unique opportunity to support women and their families battling gynecological cancer. Working closely with survivors and their families has been both humbling and inspiring. Their stories of courage, resilience, faith, and determination in the face of cancer have left an indelible impression on me.

The camaraderie that develops among volunteers not only enhances the overall experience but also underscores the significance of our collective commitment. Saying yes means she can focus on fighting, resting, and serves as a poignant reminder that she never fights alone!

Through Yes Girl, I’ve forged personal connections with survivors, and the impact of volunteering with Teal Diva is palpable. It serves as a reminder that every effort, regardless of size, contributes to bringing a smile and hope to those affected by this formidable disease. The work we do with Yes Girl transcends individual contributions, forming a mosaic of support and compassion that resonates with the shared goal of connecting and assisting those facing gynecological cancer. -B. McClellan, Yes Girl Volunteer

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For me Yes Girl helped me with a project that I just had no time to get to as being a single widow of two. A 4.5-year battle with Ovarian cancer drained me physically emotionally, and well initially financially. The Teal Diva team and volunteers took the burden off of something that I could have hired someone to do but it was a huge help. Having young children when she was diagnosed was difficult and then the emotional scars that are left behind when she passed. As far as giving back, I wanted to pay it forward to the other survivors and Teal Diva. I wanted to teach my kids how rewarding it is to give back and a little manual labor never hurt anyone. It was a pleasure helping a local CM school teacher originally from Ohio. She was so grateful and the smiles on her face that day were priceless. I know many of these stories don’t end well as the nature of this disease is not kind. However that day she had one less thing to worry about and could relax. I encourage anyone who is willing to help with simple projects or who has a specialized skill or handy to give a Saturday up and come help. Or it could be as simple as lending tools or giving off supplies to complete one of these projects. Financial donations will be put to good use, this is such a great organization and program. T. Zielinski, Yes Girl Volunteer and Recipient

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The good feeling you get when you help someone who truly needs it. The hope that maybe one day I may need help and someone will step up and help. Hanging out with a good group of friends for a good cause. Seeing the before and after pictures, knowing you had a hand in making it better. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the ones you are helping.

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If you’re interested in our Yes Girl program please visit www.tealdiva.org for more info! We would love to have you at our Giving Tuesday event November 28, 2023 at NoDa Brewing Company! We are taking over the tap, all drinks bought that night will benefit Teal Diva and the Yes Girl program. Also, we have a HUGE raffle going on, you can support Teal Diva by purchasing tickets below!

Yes Girl is one way that Teal Diva supports women who have been diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer. When someone hears of their cancer diagnosis their world stops, but the responsibilities of life don’t. This is where Teal Diva and our Yes Girl program step in. Yes Girl!: a community service project/small grant program offered by Teal Diva in the Carolinas. We can’t take all the stress away, but we can lighten the load. Yes Girl has two options for our survivor recipients: household projects, lawn care, and small repairs or assistance with mortgages, utilities, or groceries. We also have the option to help with transportation to and from treatment.

How to apply :

This is currently available in Charlotte, North Carolina, and surrounding areas as well as Summerville, South Carolina, and surrounding areas.

Please contact your nurse navigator or social worker for an application. The approval process for a Yes Girl application may take 30-60 days.

How to help :

When we say yes, she wins! We say yes so, she can fight, so she can rest, so she can release these small burdens and doesn’t have to fight alone.

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If you’re interested in our Yes Girl program please visit www.tealdiva.org for more info! We would love to have you at our Giving Tuesday event November 28, 2023 at NoDa Brewing Company! We are taking over the tap, all drinks bought that night will benefit Teal Diva and the Yes Girl program. Also, we have a HUGE raffle going on, you can support Teal Diva by purchasing tickets below!

Today, we hear from small business owner Brenda. She co-owns, with her daughter, an online shop called Generations by MB. They reached out to Teal Diva wanting to help our Yes Girl program.

It’s not only the sponsorships from large companies that help a non-profit like Teal Diva make a difference. It’s also the small, locally owned shops that make a difference. Generations by MB design and create unique Bucket Has and Beanie Hats, both with protective lining along with coordinating Bucket Bags and Drawstring Bags. A portion of all sales will go back to Teal Diva and the Yes Girl program.

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Teal Diva : Can you tell me why you want to donate to Teal Diva’s Yes Girl program?

Generations by MB : We wanted to donate to this cause because the funds are used in a way that has a direct and immediate impact on those locally who are in need. Oftentimes, we forget that cancer treatment can cause other hardships in the lives of not only the patient but their families as well, we found that Yes Girl addressed those other hardships. We don’t have thousands to donate but hopefully, we can help this initiative by not only making monetary contributions but also helping bring awareness. I was surprised to learn that there are a variety of cancer colors associated with the various cancers (ie..Blue-Prostate; Green-Liver; Gray-Brain; Purple-GYN & Pancreatic; and many more). Most people are very familiar with the pink ribbon being associated with Breast Cancer, but few are aware of the other ribbons with the associated colors, so “Yes Girl” will have our support for the Teal color items.

TD : How did you hear out about Teal Diva and our Yes Girl program?

GMB : I heard about Teal Diva and your “Yes Girl” program by just doing some internet research. We were searching for cancer awareness initiatives, as previously mentioned, most people are aware of pink and Breast Cancer in October but we wanted to see what other initiatives we could support.

TD : How long have you been making things?

GMB : I’ve been sewing for a long time(let’s say, way back when people used a phone book to look up a number). My mother and I would use sewing as our time together when we would bond, laugh, and share. Unfortunately, she passed from metastatic colon cancer, but I have carried that legacy on with my daughter. We use sewing as our time to bond, laugh, and share. In our sewing hats and bags people would ask how much we sold them for, and the business was born.

TD : How long have Generations by MB been in business?

GMB : The business was officially established in July of this year.

TD : How did you come up with the name Generations MB?

GMB : Myself and my daughter are directly involved in the business. We currently have four categories in our online store, my adult grandchild and teen grandchild are involved in those categories. So we have three generations all working together.

TD : Anything else you’d like to share with our Teal Diva community?

GMB : We are excited to see how your community receives our items and we hope that our support will make a difference and serve as an example for other small businesses. As a small business, we do not have huge contributions but we try to do good in our work so that we may have something to share with someone in need.

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Thank you Brenda and the entire Generations by MB team for reaching out to Teal Diva and your support! You can shop the entire Generations collection by clicking the link below!

Our 2023 Lowcountry 5K was full of sisterhood! There were 715 participants, which included 38 teams that took over Hutchinson Square the last Saturday of September. We introduced the Lowcountry to our Mile for Her, one mile of our course dedicated to the women who have been affected by a gynecologic cancer diagnosis. It was a beautiful morning of time of coming together to celebrate, connect, and remember.

We had some fantastic teams really show up for the race this year!

Top Fundraisers

Sisi’s Soldiers $12, 300

Pattie’s Angels $6, 345

Rainbows for Rebecca $3,050

Dream Team CCOGO $2,599

Karla’s Kancer Crushers $1,900

4 Claire! $1,370

Top 10 Participant Teams

Off Our Rockers – 52

Trident Health – 45

Team Britzilla – 38

Gynomite – 36

Team Gigi – 33

4 Claire! – 25

Karla’s Kancer Krushers – 25

Sherwood Strong – 23

Erin’s Ovary Achievers – 19

Best Tent Decoration

Off Our Rockers

Want to see more pictures from the event? Head over to the Teal Diva Facebook page!