About

Although born in Winston-Salem, I was raised in Charlotte. I attended college at UNC-Chapel Hill and graduated with a degree in Journalism in 1992. After that, I worked for a couple of advertising agencies in Charlotte and then later in marketing for a footwear company and a real estate developer. I married my college sweetheart in 1994 and have three children, two girls and one boy, all teenagers!  We have a dog and a cat and a pond full of fish.

I have been interested in fashion my entire life with an obsession for accessories. Knowing this was my passion, friends often ask me for advice on clothes, where to shop and how to fix a style dilemma. After recently turning 50, I have decided to make a go of publishing my thoughts and ideas in hopes of helping others and also accessing the creative side of my brain in a way that doesn’t include bag lunch ideas or what else a 13-year old can do besides play Fortnite.

Carolina Breast Friends Partnership

On three different occasions in the past year, I’ve been asked what charity or organization I am passionate about. The first two times I said, “Hmm, I’ll have to get back to you on that.” If I’m completely honest, I didn’t have an answer and that bothered me. Of course, as a family, we regularly give to our church who distributes their funds to those in need. We’ve given to our public schools, Feeding America and all the fundraisers our kids/nieces/nephews/neighbors are involved in for chorus, baseball, Scouts, trips and performances.

I’ve always admired my friends who have a firm grasp on who to fundraise for and how to serve. It took me getting breast cancer to find my charity. The funny thing is, this charity gave me comfort during that time in my life and they didn’t even know it. I didn’t reach out for help or participate in one of their many amazing programs. I simply was given a comfort bag at my first doctor visit that had a handmade pillow along with several other items. And it helped. That pillow was tucked in with me every night after my surgery and for many weeks after radiation. It was the perfect size and squishiness. I know a survivor made it or had a hand in the design and for that, I am grateful. 

Today, I met with Carolina Breast Friends, and we formed a partnership. I toured the Pink House, learned about the programs they offer, saw the wig room and the fitting room with various bras/tops and other support apparel. As I peeked into the yoga room and the kitchen, I envisioned myself sitting with other women learning how to prepare an immune-boosting meal or stretching out the chest wall after months of being hunched over in protective mode. I learned that their vision is to support, encourage and empower those in our community who are affected by breast cancer. The Pink House was first established in 2003 by Kristy Adams-Ebel. I wish I had known her. She was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 32. During that time, she realized her need to commune with others who are on or have been on her same path. She recognized the importance of being in a positive environment that focused on healing, self- exploration and empowerment through knowledge. I guess it also took her getting breast cancer to find her charity and what an incredible place it is.

Oh By the Way, if you would like to know more or want to donate to this amazing organization, visit their website, www.carolinabreastfriends.org.