I am also known as “Teal Diva”. I am an ovarian and breast cancer survivor. In 2010, I was diagnosed with Stage 3C Ovarian Cancer, and in April 2013 I was diagnosed with Stage 2C Breast Cancer, and early onset BRCA 1 Gene. I also lost my aunt to ovarian cancer in 2004.
In spite of everything I have been through, and still experiencing, I have never allowed cancer to defeat or define me; but I have become a fearless advocate for ovarian cancer. In fact my experience motivated me to become a true dedicated advocate to find a cure for ovarian cancer.
Each year I host a 5K Walk and Run at CBS Studios, and an Ovarian Cancer Charitable Luncheon to raise funds to help raise awareness, education and research. As a result of my personal experiences I have become the face, and an advocate for other women who have similar experiences. But also to educate, inspire and motivate other women to take preventative steps for early detection. Teaming up with various groups I have been able to travel the country as a spokesperson for Ovarian Cancer.
I have participated in numerous educational healthcare fairs across the country. I have been requested by several groups to speak at their conferences and conventions to share my story which has inspired so many. And was just recently invited to the White House because of my advocacy.
I serve on the Executive Board of OASIS Southern California. Volunteers for Ovarian Cancer Research Fund Alliance (OCRFA), Speaker for the Survival Teaching Students (STS). I am the President of the Ovarian Cancer Coalition of Greater California. I was featured in the Inland Empire Magazine September 2013 edition. I also recently appeared on TVONE Hollywood Divas Show featuring Actress Countess Vaughn.
I am a U.S. Army Veteran. After serving my country I was hired as the first African American female Chief of Police for the Department of Veterans Affairs in the Los Angeles Outpatient Clinic, and was featured in Jet Magazine. I currently serve as the Second Vice President of the American Federation of Government
Employees Union Local 1061 representing over 2000 members at the Veteran Affairs Hospital in Southern California.
I am the mother of two, one granddaughter who is pregnant with her first great grandchild. The oldest of six siblings. My family is the most important aspect of my life.
When someone asked me how I hold my head up so high, I reply, “All that I have been through has made me who I am and I am a SURVIVOR!
#STS #OCRFA #ArmyVeteran #tealdiva #Advocate #BRCA1 #SURVIVORS