By: Deedee El bego
The TGIN Foundation’s recent Cocktails for the Cure gala, held at The Geraghty in Chicago, was an inspiring event that brought together supporters and advocates to help advance breast cancer awareness and support for minority women. The not for profit organization was started by the Founder of Thank God It’s Natural, Chris-Tia Donaldson. Unfortunately she passed away from breast cancer in 2015, but her message and mission still stands strong today. She focused on getting women the needs they couldn’t afford and that would include paying for their transportation in between treatments and advocating for them. The foundation has partnered with different hospitals in the area like Northwestern and Lurie and supporters have continued to spread information on breast cancer awareness. This includes Dionne Williams, who says, “It’s such a good cause that Chicago loves, Chicago has always wanted to continue Chris -Tia ‘s legacy.”
Aris Singleton & Dr. Piper Farrell looking up at Chris-Tia Donaldson’s image.
One of the evening’s highlights was the premiere of the TGIN Foundation’s “Breast Health” concept truck, a mobile unit designed to deliver critical breast cancer education directly to underserved communities throughout Chicagoland. The truck aims to empower minority women with information on prevention, self-examination, and early detection resources—bridging a gap that often exists in healthcare accessibility.
The Breast Health concept bus
The foundation continues to develop new and innovative ideas every year for spreading awareness and keeping Chris-Tia’s message alive. The gala that takes place every fall focuses on empowering women and bringing everyone together to raise money for the foundation. This year included a panel discussion on breast cancer’s impact in the Black community and an incredible live performance by Simone Green, creating a memorable and meaningful experience for all who attended. Their website: https://TGINfoundation.org/, features a couple different ways people can donate. You can easily shop their hair care line on the website and a portion of the proceeds will directly benefit the TGIN Foundation mission to give better access to breast health services through transportation. Of course you can also press the donation button on the fundraising page as well. Make sure to keep an eye out this summer for their Breast Health Bus that will be touring the Chicagoland area in order to spread more information on breast health awareness.
