Even with the best support system, the cancer journey has moments of profound loneliness. It is deeply personal and often frightening, especially in the beginning. I still remember walking into my first chemotherapy session seven years ago absolutely terrified — unsure how my body would react and wondering if the treatment would even work.
During one of those early sessions, I received a blanket — a teal fleece blanket covered in ribbons and butterflies. I loved it immediately. My daughter Alice loved it too. It became her talisman, something she held onto whenever I was in the hospital for surgery or dealing with chemo side effects. That blanket gave us both hope. It reminded us that we were not alone, that someone out there was thinking of us.
Discovering Diane’s Helping Hands
A few years later, while searching for a local ovarian cancer walk, I found a walk sponsored by Diane’s Helping Hands at Dunkin’ Park. I didn’t know what to expect, but the moment I stepped into the park, I felt welcomed. I was greeted by a sea of teal shirts and warm smiles. Teal, the color of ovarian cancer awareness, was everywhere. Vendor tables were set up with various items and kids were smiling, running around; it was a family event.
I received a survivor’s sash and felt a spark of hope. I even took a photo with other survivors — a moment of connection I didn’t know I needed.
As we walked the concourse, tribute photos appeared on the media board: faces and names of those lost to ovarian cancer. That’s where I first saw Diane. It was a powerful and grounding moment.
Later, I learned that the blanket I had received during chemo — the one that comforted me and my daughter — had come from Diane’s Helping Hands. It was one of the very first blankets they ever made. I knew I needed to learn more about this incredible organization.
A Legacy of Kindness
Two sisters, Crystal and Tunisia, lost their mom Diane to ovarian cancer in 2019. They met their grief with a call to action — a commitment to keep alive their mother’s legacy of small acts of kindness.
Their mother had been a seamstress. They weren’t, but they knew they could put together two pieces of fleece and tie knots around the edges to create a cozy blanket. They started in someone’s living room. It went so well that the next time they expanded to a hall. Soon they added cards, comfort items, and eventually full “comfort kits” for individuals going through chemo.
Filling the Gaps in Ovarian Cancer Awareness
Crystal and Tunisia also recognized a troubling gap in ovarian cancer education for both patients and caregivers. They had trouble finding what they needed to navigate their journey. Ovarian cancer is often called the silent killer because there is no screening test, and most cases are diagnosed at stage III or IV. Mine was stage IVB.
They wanted to change that.
They also understood that African American women are least likely to be diagnosed, but when they are, have higher mortality rates. Bridging that health disparity became part of their mission. Attending health fairs, participating in community events, and sharing life‑saving information became central to their work.
Crystal and Tunisia are warm, welcoming, and wonderfully complementary. Crystal shines in event planning, while Tunisia excels at crafting and creating merchandise — including the teal shirts many of us proudly wear at the walk.
Becoming Part of the Community
Since that first walk, I’ve become part of the Diane’s Helping Hands community. I’ve attended a survivors’ dinner, a Crafting for Cancer event, and a Wine Bingo fundraiser — each one filled with connection, purpose, and joy.
These gatherings aren’t just events. They are reminders that healing happens in community, and that kindness can ripple outward in ways we don’t always see.
Upcoming Event: Crafting for Cancer — Join Us
When: Sunday, April 26, 2026 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Drop in anytime)
Where: The Lucky Gut
10 Wilcox St, Simsbury
Together we’ll be:
- Making no‑sew blankets
- Creating encouraging cards
- Assembling hope and comfort kits for cancer patients
No experience needed — just bring your heart to help.
Plus, 10% of all market sales during the event will be donated to Diane’s Helping Hands. Invite your family and friends to stop by for a smoothie, a draft kombucha, or dinner from the grab‑and‑go section — every purchase helps support cancer patients in our community.
Where No One Walks Alone
Diane’s Helping Hands has built a community where no one walks alone. They’ve shown me — and so many others — the power of compassion, connection, and simple acts of kindness.
The Walk
Save the date! This year’s walk is September 27, 2026, Dunkin’ Park, Hartford.
Funds raised go to Diane’s Helping Hands with a percentage going to NOCC – National Ovarian Cancer Coalition.
Join me!!!!
Finding the ability to share acts of kindness.
Finding Abilities 