Teal Butterfly
Teal Butterfly is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to raise awareness about the early signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer by educating the public through community events and social media campaigns
My Story
My mom died from ovarian cancer when she was 50 years old. By the time she went to the doctor, she was already in the latter stages. She had surgery to remove as much as possible, went through treatments, but her cancer spread throughout her body. There was nothing else that could be done. I was 22 at the time, a senior in college. She died on September 13, 2002. This year marks 20 years since her death. I want to highlight programs and services so other people know the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer. I want women to seek help at the first signs of symptoms so they can receive treatment before it’s too late.
Her Story
I interviewed Janine, founder of the non-profit Teal Butterfly, to highlight some of the awesome things they are doing to spread awareness of Ovarian Cancer.
Janine has a similar story. Her sister, Judy, died from Ovarian Cancer at the age of 49. Janine soon formed Ovarian Cancer Awareness Charlotte, NC, a non-profit aimed at bringing awareness to this cancer. Several years later, drawing inspiration from Amy Roberts, another awareness warrior, a challenge was born. Janine had a family photo of her sisters and mom from a trip they had taken before Judy’s death. In it, they each had a butterfly necklace and were making butterfly symbols with their hands. From this image, the Butterfly Challenge began and Teal Butterfly was formed.
Know the Signs
Ovarian Cancer is difficult to detect. Currently, there are no tests that detect Ovarian Cancer. Pap smears do not detect Ovarian Cancer. The best way to catch it early is to know the signs and not ignore them. If you or someone you know is experiencing the following symptoms, don’t hesitate to see your healthcare provider. If these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, please seek medical attention. Ask your OB/GYN for more information. Ask about the CA-125 blood test and a vaginal ultrasound.
Bloating
Pelvic or Abdominal Pain
Trouble eating or feeling full quickly
Feeling the need to urinate urgently and often
Fatigue
Upset stomach or heartburn
Back pain
Pain during sex
Constipation or menstrual changes
How to get involved
Take the Teal Butterfly Challenge
Step 1 – Paint your nails TEAL
Step 2 – Make a butterfly symbol by interlocking your thumbs and spreading your fingers
Step 3 – Take a photo or a video and post on social media and include the symptoms
Step 4 -Tag #tealbutterflychallenge in your caption
Planting the Seeds Early to Raise Awareness
This year, Teal Butterfly gave away packets of flower seeds that have the signs of Ovarian Cancer on the back.
Robin’s Ride
Robin’s Ride was created by Robin Isenberg and her son Keith Isenberg with the mission to bring awareness for ovarian cancer and combat the cancer that whispers. Read more about this annual bike race and find ways to give to this cause.
Butterfly Boxes
Teal Butterfly gives back to the community by supporting local cancer centers and giving Butterfly Boxes for women at the infusion centers who are battling gynecological cancers. These boxes contain messages of encouragement and hope to help the individual and their families through their trying times along with several items to bring comfort to these women.
Others Ways to get involved
Each year, Teal Butterfly hosts an awareness night called “Stick it to Cancer” with the Charlotte Checkers Hockey Club.
Find out how to earn a special Girl Scout patch!
Each year, Teal Butterfly also hosts an awareness night called “A Knight Out for Ovarian Cancer” with the Charlotte Knights AAA Baseball Club.
Teal Butterfly Online Store
Consider purchasing items from the Teal Butterfly Online Store.
Donate to Teal Butterfly
There are several ways to support Teal Butterfly with your monetary donations. Click below to find out more.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Stationery Bundle
Purchase the Ovarian Cancer Awareness Stationery Bundle. The profits from these purchases will be donated to Teal Butterfly to help them continue their outreach programs.
Welcome!
Hi! I’m Misty, the imperfect Mama behind Life Between the Dishes. My goal is for you to find tools, tips, and resources here to help you maintain sanity through daily mom life!
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